The Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) have not yet finalized a power-sharing formula for the Gilgit-Baltistan government, as negotiations over ministerial portfolios continue. According to sources, the IPP has refused to show flexibility on the proposed arrangement.
Ministerial Portfolio Dispute
While the PPP has offered the IPP two ministerial portfolios, the IPP is insisting on four ministries and has so far declined to withdraw its demand. PPP sources indicated that offering three ministries may be necessary to break the deadlock and secure an agreement between the two parties.
Efforts are underway to convince the IPP leadership to accept a compromise. Gilgit-Baltistan Chief Minister-designate Amjad Advocate is reportedly in contact with senior IPP leaders as talks continue. Despite the stalemate, PPP leaders remain optimistic that the negotiations will lead to a breakthrough in the coming days.
Background and Political Context
Earlier, the PPP's candidate was elected Chief Minister of Gilgit-Baltistan unopposed, while PML-N leader Hafiz Hafeez-ur-Rehman was elected Leader of the Opposition in the Gilgit-Baltistan Assembly. Meanwhile, IPP Chairman and Federal Minister for Communications Aleem Khan recently held discussions with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on the formation of the new government in Gilgit-Baltistan. Sources said both sides agreed in principle to establish a coalition government.
PML-N Role
Sources further said the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) would support the PPP's chief minister candidate but would sit on the opposition benches. In return, the PML-N is expected to receive the offices of the Gilgit-Baltistan Governor and the Deputy Speaker under the proposed arrangement.
