ISLAMABAD, July 6 (Alliance News): The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) have reportedly agreed on a power-sharing formula for the formation of the new government in Gilgit-Baltistan following the recent regional elections.
According to well-placed sources, the PPP, which emerged as the single largest party in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly, will lead the coalition government, while the IPP will receive cabinet representation in proportion to its strength in the assembly.
PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari is expected to arrive in Gilgit on July 6 to hold consultations and interview candidates for ministerial positions as part of the cabinet formation process.
Sources said the IPP had initially sought four ministerial portfolios but, under the agreed arrangement, will receive two ministries. One of the portfolios is expected to be a key ministry. The PPP leadership has reportedly approved the power-sharing formula, although the IPP has yet to submit its preferred ministries.
Earlier, IPP Chairman and Federal Minister for Communications Aleem Khan held discussions with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on the formation of the Gilgit-Baltistan government, during which both leaders agreed to establish a coalition administration.
Meanwhile, sources said the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) will support the PPP’s candidate for chief minister but will sit on the opposition benches. In return for its backing, the PML-N is expected to receive the positions of Governor of Gilgit-Baltistan and Deputy Speaker of the assembly.
The consultations are part of ongoing efforts to finalize the new government following the Gilgit-Baltistan elections.
