New AJK govt: PML-N meets in Murree

The PML-N leadership convened a crucial meeting in Murree on Friday to discuss the establishment of the upcoming Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK) government, as well as internal tensions within the ruling coalition at the national level. Notable attendees included PML-N President Nawaz Sharif, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz, and former Punjab chief minister Hamza Shehbaz.

Hamza, recently appointed a new role within the Prime Minister's Office, returned to Islamabad after a European trip, while Maryam attended a ceremony on August 14 before heading to Lahore. The discussions primarily centered around forming the AJK government and identifying potential leaders for key positions. The PML-N has already secured a majority after winning over two dozen of the 38 contested seats in the 45-member AJK Legislative Assembly, with the remaining seats set to be decided in the fourth phase of the polls.

The meeting occurred amidst escalating disagreements between the PML-N and its coalition ally, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP), over allegations of election rigging by the PPP. PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari has vowed to continue criticizing the PML-N during the National Assembly's upcoming session. Some PPP members are now advocating for the party to move to the opposition benches to capitalize on the current political climate, while internal party disagreements over the appointment of PPP-recommended judges have further strained relations.

The PML-N faces additional challenges, including opposition to the creation of smaller administrative units, which party insiders perceive as an initiative promoted by influential figures within the party. This concern is expected to remain a significant topic as the party navigates the formation of the next AJK government and addresses its strained relationship with the PPP.