PML-N leader Khawaja Saad Rafique, in a post on social media, emphasized the challenges of forming a government in the absence of a clear mandate for any single party. Rafique suggested that governing the country in the current chaotic political and economic conditions would be difficult and indicated that his party may not seek to claim leadership.

Also Read: The Effect of PMLN on Political Dynamics of Balochistan

While Rafique did not clearly state whether his remarks reflected the party’s official position, they hinted at a reconsideration of PML-N’s initial stance of forming a coalition with the PPP and others. Some within the PML-N are reported to have advised against forming a minority government, especially after PPP’s Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari expressed support for a PML-N-led government in exchange for top constitutional offices and a PPP government in Balochistan.

The editorial suggests that while divergent political interests may occasionally slow down reforms, PML-N should not shy away from forming a minority government, as parliamentary democracies worldwide have seen minority governments function effectively with support from other parties. It emphasizes the need for give-and-take in negotiations and calls on political stakeholders to respect the split verdict given by the people.