PPP and PML-N Alliance Faces Strain

Apparent divisions have surfaced within the coalition between the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), as prominent figures from both parties engaged in mutual criticism on Tuesday.

The discord became evident following recent flood events. The PPP has been advocating for flood victims in Punjab to receive assistance through the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP). However, the Punjab government has maintained its position of utilizing its own strategies for providing aid to those affected by the disaster.

Tensions escalated when the PPP staged walkouts from both the Senate and National Assembly sessions. This action was in response to remarks made by the Punjab CM concerning canal projects and her views on PPP leaders’ reactions to her government’s flood response.

PPP leaders voiced strong objections to a statement made by CM Maryam on Monday, where she expressed her intention to utilize Punjab’s water resources for the cultivation of Cholistan. She questioned the opposition to Punjab’s initiatives, stating, “If Punjab discusses constructing canals, why does it bother you? Why oppose Punjab’s efforts?”

She further added, “My water, my resources — why does that cause concern? Those advising Punjab should keep their advice to themselves.”

Earlier in the day, she reinforced her critique of her party’s ally, alleging that other provinces attempted to exploit the Punjab floods for ‘political advantage’.

During her address in Chakwal, CM Maryam reiterated the Punjab government’s commitment to rehabilitating flood victims using its own funds, without seeking external assistance.

However, her statements were met with disapproval from the PPP, leading its lawmakers to announce a boycott of legislative proceedings until CM Maryam issues an apology for her remarks.

PPP Senator Zamir Hussain Ghumro stated that his party would abstain from all legislative proceedings in the Senate until the Punjab CM apologizes for her comments.

Senator Ghumro noted that CM Maryam inaugurated the canals project despite his party’s opposition within the Council of Common Interests (CCI).

PPP’s MNA Syed Naveed Qamar stated that the PPP possesses experience in managing severe floods.

“Why is offering guidance based on our past experiences considered criticism?” he inquired, before challenging Maryam’s slogan of ‘My water, my money’.

In response, PML-N Senator Rana Sanaullah defended the Punjab CM, asserting that it was Maryam’s responsibility to address criticism directed at her performance in the province.

“The Punjab CM simply reiterated the views she had previously expressed in the CCI, emphasizing Punjab’s right to utilize its share of water,” he elaborated.