Parties in final round of talks

Published November 11, 2002

ISLAMABAD, Nov 10: Political parties would start a decisive round of talks on formation of government from Monday and finalize their future strategy.

Sources said that the GNA and MMA negotiations on LFO and other constitutional amendments were due to be completed within a couple of days.

The pending decision of ARD and MMA on the formation of proposed coalition government would also be announced within three to four days.

The inaugural session of the National Assembly was postponed for one week. As it is being expected that the session would be called this week starting Monday, all political forces are trying to hammer out their strategy before the MNAs-elect take their oath.

There are reports that there may be a run-off election for the prime minister’s office in case of more than two candidates being in the fray.

The concept of a run-off election is already available in the rules of business and conduct of business of the National Assembly, as Rule No 19-sub (5) in the chapter 4 of the rules deals with the concept of run-off elections, the sources added.

Political observers are of the view that the next four to five days would decide the democratic future of the country and all leaders of the three major political forces would try their level best to form a future government by garnering support of a maximum number of MNAs.

The PML-Q has nominated Mir Zafarullha Jamali while the MMA has nominated Maulana Fazlur Rehman for the top job. The PPP has not yet formally nominated its candidate for the slot.

However, Mr Fahim may be the candidate for this office. He is negotiating with other parties for the formation of a government of national consensus.

After the passage of one month after the elections, the political scene is yet not clear, though. Things might take a concrete shape next week. —APP

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