PML-N PPP alliance likely to form Gilgit Baltistan government

Coalition talks suggest PPP chief minister and PML-N governor under proposed 60/40 power-sharing formula.

ISLAMABAD: A coalition government between Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) is likely to be formed in Gilgit-Baltistan, according to political sources familiar with ongoing negotiations.

Sources said the proposed arrangement follows a PDM-style power-sharing formula, under which the PPP would hold the office of chief minister, while the governorship could be assigned to the PML-N.

Under the reported agreement, ministries in the coalition setup would be divided on a 60/40 basis between the two major parties.

The development comes after a high-level meeting held at the Presidency, where Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif led a government delegation that met with Pakistan Peoples Party leadership headed by Asif Ali Zardari and Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

The meeting was also attended by Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar and other federal ministers, where discussions reportedly included the federal budget and broader political cooperation.

Sources said both sides reached significant alignment on several budget proposals, with the PPP reportedly signalling support for the passage of the upcoming budget.

During the meeting, political leaders also exchanged remarks in a cordial atmosphere, with leaders praising each other’s election campaign efforts in Gilgit-Baltistan.

According to sources, the discussions also touched upon the political situation in Azad Jammu and Kashmir, alongside broader governance matters.

Further consultations between coalition partners are expected before a final power-sharing arrangement is formally announced.