LAHORE – Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Waseem Qadir has claimed that he received votes from both the PML-N and the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) in the recent general elections.
Speaking to ARY News, Qadir said his victory was not solely dependent on PTI’s support. He stressed that his conscience was clear, as backing came from voters of both major parties.
Qadir contested the election as an independent candidate, backed by PTI, after the party’s official nominee withdrew from the race. He later announced his decision to rejoin the PML-N, saying the move was made last year after discussions with party leader Hamza Shehbaz.
The former PTI Lahore general secretary explained that Hamza Shehbaz had personally requested him to return to PML-N. He also noted that several PML-N members in his constituency opposed granting a party ticket to Sheikh Rohail Asghar, citing concerns over his popularity among younger voters.
Qadir said he had previously tried to bring reforms within PTI but failed to achieve the desired changes. Following his election win, Hamza Shehbaz asked about his political plans, prompting him to officially rejoin PML-N.
The development reflects the complex political dynamics following the elections, where candidate alignments and party loyalties continue to shift. Analysts note that cross-party support, as claimed by Qadir, could play a significant role in shaping future alliances in Punjab’s political landscape.
For more on this development, read our full report: Omar Ayub Gets Contempt Notice Over Court Tweet.
