Historic Coalition: Shehbaz Sharif Prime Minister, Zardari as President; PPP and PML-N Unite to Lead Government

After extensive deliberation and negotiation, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) reached a consensus late Tuesday to establish a coalition government at the Center, given that no party attained a clear majority in the February 8 general election.

Amidst post-election ambiguity, senior leaders from both parties affirmed their decision to reunite and govern together "in the best interest of the nation."

"The Pakistan Peoples Party and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz now possess the necessary numbers, enabling us to establish the next government," stated PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari during a press conference in Islamabad late Tuesday, joined by key leaders from both parties.

With no single party securing a simple majority in the February 8 elections, the imperative to form alliances became evident, although the delay in reaching an agreement had sparked concerns.

Following the polls, independent candidates supported by the PTI held the highest number of National Assembly seats (92), followed by the PML-N (79) and the PPP (54).

During negotiations for government formation, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) had formed an alliance with the Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC) to bolster its numbers through reserved seats in the assemblies. However, Bilawal informed reporters that the SIC lacked adequate numbers to form the next central government.

He disclosed that Shehbaz would assume the role of prime minister while Zardari would be the joint nominee for the presidency from both parties. Emphasizing the aim of steering the country out of ongoing crises, Bilawal expressed optimism about their ability to deliver. Responding to queries about PML-N leader Ishaq Dar's potential nomination as Senate chairman, Bilawal indicated that decisions were made during meetings and would be announced separately by each party.

Highlighting the efficiency of their coalition, Bilawal remarked, "Compared to previous terms, we have swiftly declared the coalition and made consensual decisions. PPP Co-chairman Zardari reassured the public, stating, "Our struggle is for you, Pakistan, and the future generations," emphasizing the commitment to ensuring Pakistan's success for generations to come.