December 19, 2002	Thursday	Shawwal 14, 1423

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BAHAWALPUR, Dec 18: Instead of fielding its candidate in by-elections, the PPP is considering to support PML-Q’s Syed Tasnim Nawaz Gardezi in NA-187.

Polling is scheduled for January 15.

Dawn learnt on Wednesday that there were differences in the party ranks as most of its leaders and workers were of the view that the PPP should contest the by-elections to retain its seat. But, district Nazim Tariq Cheema of the PPP wanted that Tasnim Gardezi should be supported and he should be elected from this seat. However, PPP workers are perturbed over the delay in naming its candidate by the leadership.

Mr Cheema has a vast following in his constituency but the loyal PPP workers seem to be hesitant in favouring Mr Gardezi.

Mr Cheema is also unlikely to favour his brother-in-law Sajjad Jathol, who has filed his nomination papers from this seat.

As regards the claim of Pakistan Seraiki Party’s Taj Muhammad Langah of PPP chairperson Benazir Bhutto’s support, he will not be able to get arrow election symbol.

According to Mr Langah, he was negotiating with the ARD high-ups and the MMA leadership. In that case, PPP workers and voters will not vote for Mr Langah and prefer to stay away from the polling.

According to a source, former minister Afzal Sindhu is also contacting Ms Bhutto to apprise her of the situation and seek party ticket for himself.