The Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) has decided to join the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) led government in Sindh today. Two leaders belonging to the MQM, which is Karachi’s largest political party, are expected to take oath as ministers today, sources said.
A spokesman of the Governor’s House confirmed that an oath-taking ceremony is scheduled to take place later today, but declined to give any further information.
According to party sources, MQM leaders Rauf Siddiqui and Dr Saghir are expected to take oath as ministers.
Siddiqui is likely to be assigned the Commerce Minister portfolio whereas Saghir is expected to take the Ministry of Health portfolio.
When contacted on Monday, leaders of both parties declined to comment on the expected oath-taking ceremony. However, Abdul Qadir Patel of the PPP had said he was aware of the development, and showed optimism on the likelihood of MQM joining the Sindh government.
Last month’s meeting between former president Asif Ali Zardari and Sindh Governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan and some MQM leaders had triggered speculation of the possible MQM-PPP alliance in Sindh.
Later, a statement of Sindh Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon in which he had hinted that the PPP was ready to embrace the MQM strengthened the rumours that both parties were making headway in their talks.
Web Desk
