PML-N and MQM Join Forces in Surprising Electoral Alliance, Challenging Pakistan People's Party in Sindh Province

In a surprising turn of events, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) have announced an electoral alliance to contest the upcoming general elections in Sindh province. The PML-N, led by former prime minister Nawaz Sharif, sought the support of the MQM, which has a strong base in Karachi and Hyderabad districts, to challenge the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), which has dominated the province for years. This alliance comes after reports of a deal between the military establishment and Nawaz Sharif, which soured the relations between the PML-N and PPP.

The military establishment reportedly does not want the PPP to form a government in Sindh, its stronghold, giving the PML-N the opportunity to form a grand alliance. Other parties, such as the Grand Democratic Alliance and the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam, have already joined forces with the PML-N. In response, the PPP is exploring an alliance with Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), despite facing backlash from the military for alleged attacks on army installations. However, political pundits suggest that aligning with the PTI may invite the wrath of the military establishment.

During their meeting, the PML-N and MQM agreed to jointly contest the elections and develop a comprehensive charter to address the issues in Sindh and its urban areas. Nawaz Sharif, who has returned to Pakistan after four years of self-exile, is said to be fully fit for the upcoming polls and is hopeful of becoming the next prime minister. The announcement of the PML-N-MQM alliance follows the declaration of cooperation between the PML-N and PPP, indicating major political shifts and alliances in the country. With the Election Commission of Pakistan setting the date for the general elections on February 8, political campaigning has intensified across the nation. It remains to be seen how these alliances will shape the political landscape in Pakistan and impact the electoral outcome in Sindh province.