PPP accuses PML-N of deepening political divide ahead of polls

KARACHI: The political divide between Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) appeared to widen as the PPP accused its former ally of abandoning its “respect the vote” narrative and colluding with what they refer to as “selectors,” a term used to describe the establishment’s alleged support for the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chief.

According to Dawn.com, in an unprecedented move since the dissolution of the assemblies on August 9 and the emergence of fissures in the past ruling coalition, the PPP openly blamed the PML-N, using a tone previously reserved for the PTI.

As per the reports, the shift in the PPP’s stance was made public by its chairman, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, who responded spontaneously to a question about the reasons behind the diminishing unity between the two parties.

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari remarked, “We are always in contact with the people while they [PML-N] are in contact with selectors,” alluding to allegations of connections with powerful forces.

He further highlighted the PPP’s experience and ability to counter any forces aligning against them in the upcoming elections.

Read More: Khadija Shah granted bail in provocative tweets case

Meanwhile, the PPP chairman also accused the PML-N of forsaking its “democratic” narrative, which previously advocated for constitutional supremacy and a just and equitable system.

Despite a delay in announcing the poll date, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed confidence that the general elections would not be postponed beyond February 8, 2024, especially with the Supreme Court’s support. He stated, “I hope that now no one can run away from the elections.”

Regarding the PPP’s former alliance with the PML-N, Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari explained that his party supported them when they promoted the “respect the vote” slogan.

However, when the PML-N shifted away from that narrative, the PPP found it untenable to continue along with them.

Despite reservations about the “uneven playing field” in past elections, the PPP chairman remained optimistic about his party’s performance in the upcoming elections, indicating that they would emerge victorious regardless.

When asked about the “electoral alliance” between the PML-N and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P), Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari described it as “damaging” for both parties. He expressed hope for the PPP’s prospects in Karachi, where they recently secured a majority in local elections and appointed a mayor for the first time in over 50 years since the party’s inception.