KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan accepted proposal tabled by Pakistan Democratic Movement as it decided not to contest upcoming by-elections on National Assembly (NA) vacant seats.

According to details, decision was taken during meeting of MQM-P’s Rabta Committee, which was summoned to consult over proposal tabled by Pakistan Democratic Movement.

Decision was taken on account of ongoing economic situation of country at party meeting chaired by Nasreen Jalil.

Sources told that Rabta Committee decided against contesting by-elections on NA vacant seats, citing country’s ‘worsening economic situation’.

Ruling coalition contacted MQM-P after Pakistan Peoples’ Party set condition that it will not contest by-elections on vacant NA seats only if Awami National Party and Muttahida Qaumi Movement-Pakistan boycott upcoming polls.

Sources told that PPP demanded coalition parties should jointly announce boycott of by-polls as it refuses to leave field empty for ANP and MQM-P.

PPP leadership was divided on boycotting polls as majority of party members were against ANP and MQM contesting elections. “PDM would suffer political damage if both parties contest polls,” sources said while quoting PPP.

Published in The Daily National Courier, February, 20 2023

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