Pakistan’s deputy PM dismisses reports of power-sharing talks with key coalition ally

Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar clarified on Saturday that the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), though not part of the federal cabinet, remains a key political ally and has made no demands for ministerial positions.

“When we began the government, our strength was not that higher but gradually it improved. We will though cooperate with the PPP in any talks that may arise,” he told reporters during a press talk in Lahore.

Dar made the remarks in response to a question about whether the PPP had sought ministries in exchange for backing the coalition, particularly during the recent federal budget process. He rejected the suggestion, reiterating that the PPP had shown consistent support for the government.

Although the PPP chose not to join the federal cabinet following the February 8, 2024 general elections, it pledged to support the formation of the PML-N-led government and has since remained a cooperative coalition partner.

“PPP is and will remain our coalition partner,” he said. Dar added that the PPP stood by the ruling alliance during turbulent phases, and the PML-N would reciprocate that support even in times of relative political stability.

'No Nawaz-Imran meeting took place'

He also brushed aside media reports claiming that PML-N leader Nawaz Sharif had recently met incarcerated opposition leader and PTI founder Imran Khan in Adiala Jail.

“This is all speculation, it could be someone’s wish list. The law will take its course and such sponsored news are deliberately spread,” Dar remarked. He further stressed that the government was open to working with all political parties—whether in power or opposition.

“When the conflict with India took place, we engaged with all parties and the world saw the united stand of Pakistan and it was not about any party, it was all about Pakistan unity that the world saw,” he added. However, he noted that such unity should not come at the cost of undermining the law or constitutional norms.

On allegations of corruption in the PTI-led government in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Dar said the matter should be dealt with transparently and in accordance with the law.

“If corruption has surfaced, then it must be exposed and dealt with law wherever it emerges,” he said.