MQM back to the fold

Sticking this time?

The understanding between PPP and MQM has benefited both. What is more it has provided a sense of relief to the federal government. Foremost among those who are unhappy over the development are the PTI and Jamaat-e-Islami, who desperately want to replace MQM in urban Sindh.

It was no surprise for those familiar with MQM’s past when it agreed to return to the Sindh cabinet three months after parting company with PPP, accusing its leadership of making insulting remarks against Altaf Hussain. The U-turn has been necessitated by the unprecedented isolation currently faced by the party. The allegation that the Baldia garments factory was set on fire in 2012 by MQM activists, because its owners failed to pay extortion money to party leaders, had led to country-wide demands for a thorough probe and exemplary punishment if the charge is proved. After the 1992 military action initiated by the PML-N government, avowedly against criminal, elements turned into an all out operation against the MQM, the present operation in Karachi by the LEAs gives the party a sense of déjà vu. The return to the ruling coalition provides it a sense of security.

Asif Ali Zardari faces opposition from within the party after the estrangement with Bilawal. Despite a reaffirmation of loyalty the disgruntled Amin Fahim showed resentment by going abroad as none recommended by him was given the party ticket for the Senate elections. The understanding with the MQM would increase the PPP seats from six to seven and this could be presented as a masterstroke by Zardari.

Nawaz Sharif was disturbed over the open hostilities between the MQM and the PPP which could lead to further deterioration in law and order in Karachi. After the announcement of an understanding Sharif called off the high level meeting in Karachi. With the MQM still un-reconciled with the 60-40 formula and accepting it only under duress while the PPP is wedded to it, the basis for dissension remains intact and a separation can again take place in days to come.