PML-N should play opposition role in GB, says Saad Rafique

Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz)) leader Khawaja Saad Rafique has suggested that the party should consider playing the role of opposition in Gilgit-Baltistan.

In a statement, he said that the impression of a major defeat for PML-N in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections is not accurate.

Claiming electoral performance, he said the party had secured eight seats, while two independent candidates backed by PML-N also won. He further added that several party candidates narrowly lost by small margins.

Khawaja Saad Rafique also advised that, in his view, for the smooth functioning of the parliamentary system, PML-N should support the Pakistan Peoples Party in forming the government in Gilgit-Baltistan but should avoid taking any ministerial portfolios.

On the other hand, Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar held a telephonic conversation with Pakistan Peoples Party (Pakistan Peoples Party) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, during which both leaders agreed that the single largest party should be allowed to form the government in Gilgit-Baltistan.

According to sources, Ishaq Dar congratulated Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on the Pakistan Peoples Party’s performance in the Gilgit-Baltistan elections during the call.

Both leaders also agreed that the principle of the single largest party forming the government would be upheld in Gilgit-Baltistan.

In addition, they agreed that political leadership from both parties would sit together to discuss matters related to Gilgit-Baltistan and ensure coordination on regional affairs.