How PML-N got Punjab is open secret: Talpur

PPP Women's Wing President Faryal Talpur has called on party members to exploit the vulnerabilities of the PML-N-led Punjab administration. She noted that the PML-N's victory in the February 8, 2024 provincial elections was widely acknowledged as a known fact. Talpur, currently touring Punjab, convened three meetings at the party's Central Secretariat, including exclusive sessions with leaders from Lahore Rural, Kasur, and Sheikhupura districts as well as civil society representatives.

Discontent with the provincial leadership and a breakfast dispute overshadowed her meetings on Friday. During one session, a Kasur senior vice president alleged that the Governor House was off-limits to party leaders unless they went through the party's general secretary or Central Punjab office for access. This sentiment echoed a recent Central Punjab meeting chaired by Raja Pervez Ashraf.

Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider Khan, who is a member of the PPP, reportedly received the complaint and subsequently visited the party office to meet Talpur. Another meeting with Lahore Rural office-bearers saw a representative lash out at central leadership for requesting concise remarks to accommodate more attendees. Several party members also expressed concerns about the provincial leadership's demeanor.

While Talpur was holding the meetings, over a dozen supporters gathered outside the secretariat to protest disciplinary actions against two Lahore office-bearers accused of running a smear campaign against Murtaza. One was dismissed, while another received an explanation notice. Talpur was notified of the protest and ordered Central Information Secretary Nadeem Afzal Chan to investigate.

A three-member committee consisting of Chan, Qamar Zaman Kaira, and Rana Farooq Saeed was formed. Separately, Talpur addressed party workers from Sheikhupura and Kasur, urging them to overcome despondency, bolster grassroots organization, and prepare for upcoming local government elections. She emphasized that while the PPP had never resorted to power politics, they were skilled in their role as opposition.

Talpur instructed the Sheikhupura district president and general secretary to finalize party organization at the ward level and conduct comprehensive, union council-wise preparations for the LG elections. She encouraged party members to leave their homes, support one another, and stand by their colleagues during challenging times.