Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), in an apparent bid to dismiss Opposition leader Khursheed Shah, has been corresponding with various opposition parties. Reportedly, PTI has even made contact with Muttahida Quami Movement-Pakistan (MQM-P) for the desired outcome.
According to media reports, after ousting Nawaz Sharif from the post of prime minister, PTI has started a campaign to oust the opposition leader. It looks like a difficult task, but if position parties can come up with a joint front against the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Khursheed Shah it can turn into reality. According to the rulebooks, the speaker of the national assembly is bound to ordain a member as opposition leader whose support lies with a majority of members from the opposition.
At the moment, out of 119 seats, PPP holds 47 seats in the National Assembly, with PTI in a second spot having 32 seats; MQM-P has 24 seats while JI has 4; ANP and PML-Q have 2 seats each; while 8 seats are with independent candidates and others.
The PTI needs the support of 60 MNAs to oust Shah. Even though PTI and MQM-P cumulatively share 56 seats among them, their 7-9 members already disagree with their respective parties, and they would certainly not become a part of the deal. Thus, the total share of PTI and MQM-P has been reduced to mere 47 to 49 seats. Add to this the potential support from PML-Q and others’ category, the number will surge to a maximum of 56 seats.
On the other, PPP’s Shah enjoys support from his own party, ANP and 6-7 members from others’ category, which adds to a total of 55-56 members. This left the opposition factions with JI’s support, which is vital as it can decide the final outcome.
Pakistan’s politics is in tumult for a long period so it does not look like JI chief Sirajul Haq will leave Khursheed Shah in hot waters. Furthermore, this move can escalate the uncertainty that would negatively impact the upcoming general election.
