Gilani Demands Government Honor Written Agreement with PPP, Rejects Cabinet Role
Islamabad:Former Prime Minister and Chairman Senate, Yousaf Raza Gillani, has demanded that the government honor its written agreement with the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), clarifying that PPP is not part of the federal cabinet, nor does it intend to join it in the future.
Speaking to the media in Islamabad, Gillani emphasized that while PPP had supported the government, it had never joined the cabinet, and it had no plans to do so in the future. He stated, “The government must implement the written agreement made with us.”
Gillani further explained that PPP has reservations with the government, and negotiations are ongoing to address these issues. He assured that as soon as an outcome is reached, the public will be informed. “Dialogue is the way forward to resolve issues,” he added.
**Tensions Between PPP and PML-N**
Gillani’s statement comes at a time when political negotiations between PPP and the ruling party, Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), are underway. PPP is urging the government to fulfill the terms of their agreement. Earlier this week, the second round of talks between the two parties ended without any significant progress. Both sides have agreed to meet again on December 24 or 25, ahead of PPP’s Central Executive Committee meeting on December 26, where the results of the discussions will be reviewed.
During the talks held in the Speaker’s Chamber of the National Assembly, PPP reiterated its demand for the government to adhere to the written agreement.
**Sindh Water Dispute and CCI Concerns**
A significant issue raised by PPP during the talks was the potential reduction in Sindh’s water share, linked to a federal project diverting water from the Indus River towards the Cholistan Desert. PPP argued that this matter should have been referred to the Council of Common Interests (CCI) for broader consultation, as the council has not met in over 180 days.
**Concerns Over Constitutional Amendments**
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari also expressed concerns about the lack of consultation with the party regarding key decisions, particularly the formation of a judicial commission under the 26th Amendment. This marks the first major disagreement between PPP and PML-N since the 2024 elections, as the ruling PML-N government prepares to take office under its leadership.
The ongoing talks are crucial for the future of the coalition and the implementation of agreed-upon policies, particularly in light of the upcoming elections and PPP’s role in shaping key national decisions.
