After Pakistan’s tumultuous elections concluded with PML-N and PPP claiming top positions, the cash-strapped country is now all set to get a new cabinet. The newly crowned Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif will take oath on Tuesday (Mar 12) after 19 ministers of his cabinet were sworn in on Monday.

Meanwhile, Asif Ali Zardari from PPP, who became the president for the second time, is making strides towards setting a new precedent by naming his daughter Aseefa Bhutto Zardari as the First Lady of Pakistan.&nbsp;

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-delegation-on-religious-freedom-forced-to-leave-saudi-arabia-over-kippah-row-699163">US delegation on religious freedom forced to leave Saudi Arabia over kippah row</a>

This will be a new first for Pakistan,&nbsp;weeks after Maryam Nawaz Sharif became the first-ever female Chief Minister of a Pakistan&nbsp;state (Punjab).

Though there has been no official announcement on Aseefa yet, local media is speculating about it, and the official X account of PPP has already started referring to Aseefa using the title.

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First lady with the President<a href="https://twitter.com/AAliZardari?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AAliZardari</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/AseefaBZ?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@AseefaBZ</a> <a href="https://t.co/YgcoLaRdSH">pic.twitter.com/YgcoLaRdSH</a>
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Before it is made official, here is everything you need to know about the probable First Lady of Pakistan, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari.&nbsp;

<h2>Who is Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the youngest in family set to take&nbsp;charge as first lady?</h2>

Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is the daughter of Pakistan&nbsp;President Asif Ali Zardari and the late former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, who was assassinated in 2007.

Born in February 1993, Aseefa is the youngest child of Asif Ali Zardari.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Aseefa pursued her education at prestigious institutions, just like any other son and daughter of an influential Pakistani political leader. She studied at Oxford Brookes University, University College of London and the University of Edinburgh.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/houthi-rebels-target-us-ship-pinocchio-in-red-sea-as-11-killed-in-us-british-airstrikes-699164">Houthi rebels target US ship 'Pinocchio' in Red Sea as 11 killed in US-British airstrikes</a>

She was first seen in the public eye when she made a debut speech at a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) rally. Previously, she also served as Pakistan’s Ambassador for polio eradication.&nbsp;

Generally, the first lady is the wife of the president or the leader of the state, but as per Merriam-Webster, first lady is an umbrella term for someone who is not the wife or female partner of a state’s chief executive but someone who fulfils the public duties of a First Lady.

Also Read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/embattled-haiti-pm-ariel-henry-has-resigned-confirms-caricom-president-irfaan-ali-699183">Embattled Haiti PM Ariel Henry has resigned, confirms CARICOM President Irfaan Ali</a>

Asif Ali Zardari, also the co-chairperson of PPP, was sworn in as the 14th President of Pakistan on Sunday. He is the only civilian candidate&nbsp;to have been elected as head of state for a second time, excluding the military heads. Before this, he served as Pakistan's President from 2008 to 2013.

In the absence of Asif’s wife, the position of the first lady in Pakistan has been vacant until now, and local media is speculating that Aseefa might take up this role.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

After Pakistan’s tumultuous elections concluded with PML-N and PPP claiming top positions, the cash-strapped country is now all set to get a new cabinet. The newly crowned Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif will take oath on Tuesday (Mar 12) after 19 ministers of his cabinet were sworn in on Monday.

After Pakistan’s tumultuous elections concluded with PML-N and PPP claiming top positions, the cash-strapped country is now all set to get a new cabinet. The newly crowned Prime Minister of Pakistan Shehbaz Sharif will take oath on Tuesday (Mar 12) after 19 ministers of his cabinet were sworn in on Monday. Meanwhile, Asif Ali Zardari from PPP, who became the president for the second time, is making strides towards setting a new precedent by naming his daughter Aseefa Bhutto Zardari as the First Lady of Pakistan. Also Read | US delegation on religious freedom forced to leave Saudi Arabia over kippah row This will be a new first for Pakistan, weeks after Maryam Nawaz Sharif became the first-ever female Chief Minister of a Pakistan state (Punjab). Though there has been no official announcement on Aseefa yet, local media is speculating about it, and the official X account of PPP has already started referring to Aseefa using the title. First lady with the President@AAliZardari @AseefaBZ pic.twitter.com/YgcoLaRdSH — PPP (@MediaCellPPP) March 10, 2024 × Before it is made official, here is everything you need to know about the probable First Lady of Pakistan, Aseefa Bhutto Zardari. Who is Aseefa Bhutto Zardari, the youngest in family set to take charge as first lady? Aseefa Bhutto Zardari is the daughter of Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari and the late former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, who was assassinated in 2007. Born in February 1993, Aseefa is the youngest child of Asif Ali Zardari. Aseefa pursued her education at prestigious institutions, just like any other son and daughter of an influential Pakistani political leader. She studied at Oxford Brookes University, University College of London and the University of Edinburgh. Also Read | Houthi rebels target US ship 'Pinocchio' in Red Sea as 11 killed in US-British airstrikes She was first seen in the public eye when she made a debut speech at a Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) rally. Previously, she also served as Pakistan’s Ambassador for polio eradication. Generally, the first lady is the wife of the president or the leader of the state, but as per Merriam-Webster, first lady is an umbrella term for someone who is not the wife or female partner of a state’s chief executive but someone who fulfils the public duties of a First Lady. Also Read | Embattled Haiti PM Ariel Henry has resigned, confirms CARICOM President Irfaan Ali Asif Ali Zardari, also the co-chairperson of PPP, was sworn in as the 14th President of Pakistan on Sunday. He is the only civilian candidate to have been elected as head of state for a second time, excluding the military heads. Before this, he served as Pakistan's President from 2008 to 2013. In the absence of Asif’s wife, the position of the first lady in Pakistan has been vacant until now, and local media is speculating that Aseefa might take up this role. (With inputs from agencies)

Who is Aseefa Bhutto Zardari? Will Pak president's daughter become the first lady? Here's what we know

After nearly two weeks of tussle,&nbsp;the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) announced late Tuesday that a power-sharing arrangement had been reached. The elections held earlier this month failed to produce a decisive winner, forcing the dynastic parties to cobble together a coalition.&nbsp;

The PML-N and PPP agreed to put forward Shehbaz Sharif as the new prime minister while&nbsp;Asif Ali Zardari will take over as the president of the economically fragile country.&nbsp;

"The Pakistan People's Party and Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz have attained the numbers and we will form a government," said PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the son of Zardari and the late Benazir&nbsp;Bhutto, at a late-night press conference.

"We are hopeful that Shehbaz Sharif will soon become the prime minister of the country and the whole of Pakistan should pray that the government should be successful.”

Sharif, sitting beside Bhutto added there were significant challenges ahead and that the coalition needed to "take Pakistan out of these challenges".&nbsp;

Bilawal added the details of the sharing of key constitutional offices between the PPP and PML-N will come at a later date.

Notably, the alliance talks had hit a snag after PPP reportedly demanded key&nbsp;constitutional positions of president, chairman senate, and speaker of the National Assembly for its support to PML-N.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/pakistan-elections-2024-imran-backed-pti-join-hands-with-sunni-ittehad-council-691962">Watch |&nbsp;Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran backed PTI join hands with Sunni Ittehad council</a>

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&nbsp;

<h2>Controversial election results</h2>

Pakistan's national elections have been controversial with several serious accusations of widespread rigging to alter the results.&nbsp;

While the independent candidates backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan won the maximum number of seats in Parliament, PML-N and PPP managed to combine forces and keep the former PM out of power.&nbsp;

To form a government, a party or coalition must have 133 seats out of 265 contested seats in the 266-member National Assembly.

Also read |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/with-petitioner-absent-pakistan-top-court-postpones-hearing-on-case-seeking-to-annul-feb-8-election-results-691620">Pakistan top court postpones hearing on case seeking to annul Feb 8 election results</a>

Independent candidates, most of whom are&nbsp;backed by the PTI, won 93 National Assembly seats in the election.

The PML-N won 75 seats while the PPP came third with 54 seats. The Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) has also agreed to support them with their 17 seats.

(With inputs from agencies)

After nearly two weeks of tussle, the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) announced late Tuesday that a power-sharing arrangement had been reached.

After nearly two weeks of tussle, the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) announced late Tuesday that a power-sharing arrangement had been reached. The elections held earlier this month failed to produce a decisive winner, forcing the dynastic parties to cobble together a coalition. The PML-N and PPP agreed to put forward Shehbaz Sharif as the new prime minister while Asif Ali Zardari will take over as the president of the economically fragile country. "The Pakistan People's Party and Pakistan Muslim League Nawaz have attained the numbers and we will form a government," said PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the son of Zardari and the late Benazir Bhutto, at a late-night press conference. "We are hopeful that Shehbaz Sharif will soon become the prime minister of the country and the whole of Pakistan should pray that the government should be successful.” Sharif, sitting beside Bhutto added there were significant challenges ahead and that the coalition needed to "take Pakistan out of these challenges". Bilawal added the details of the sharing of key constitutional offices between the PPP and PML-N will come at a later date. Notably, the alliance talks had hit a snag after PPP reportedly demanded key constitutional positions of president, chairman senate, and speaker of the National Assembly for its support to PML-N. Watch | Pakistan Elections 2024: Imran backed PTI join hands with Sunni Ittehad council × Controversial election results Pakistan's national elections have been controversial with several serious accusations of widespread rigging to alter the results. While the independent candidates backed by Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) of jailed former prime minister Imran Khan won the maximum number of seats in Parliament, PML-N and PPP managed to combine forces and keep the former PM out of power. To form a government, a party or coalition must have 133 seats out of 265 contested seats in the 266-member National Assembly. Also read | Pakistan top court postpones hearing on case seeking to annul Feb 8 election results Independent candidates, most of whom are backed by the PTI, won 93 National Assembly seats in the election. The PML-N won 75 seats while the PPP came third with 54 seats. The Muttahida Qaumi Movement Pakistan (MQM-P) has also agreed to support them with their 17 seats. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan Elections: PML-N, PPP reach coalition deal; Shehbaz named PM, Zardari president

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), stated on Tuesday that he will not run for prime minister, acknowledging that his party lacks the authority to form the government at the federal level. These remarks come as discussions over the future prime minister of Pakistan are still ongoing. He declared at a news conference in Islamabad. "I will not be putting myself forward for the candidacy of prime minister of Pakistan due to this."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-elections-results-independents-win-most-seats-in-final-tally-689135">Pakistan election results: Independents win most seats in final tally</a>

Rather than joining the federal government, the PPP has chosen to support the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) nominee for prime minister. "The PPP has determined that neither taking on ministries in such a system nor being able to join the federal government ourselves are our goals. We also hope to avoid political anarchy inside the nation. We want to avoid having a national crisis that never ends," he declared.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-bilawal-bhutto-zardari-announces-his-candidacy-for-prime-ministership-674073">Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto</a>

In order to establish political stability in Pakistan and help build the federal government, the PPP has now chosen to join forces with other political parties to form a committee. As the Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by former prime minister Imran Khan, announced their intention to work together to form the government in both Punjab and the Central region.

According to PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan, the former prime minister has instructed the party to establish a coalition with Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) over reserved seats, while dismissing the possibility of any discussions with the PML-N, PPP, and MQM-P. This information was reported by a news agency.

Watch:&nbsp;Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto reacts to rising terror threat from Afghanistan

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On Tuesday, a Pakistani court denied over thirty petitions submitted by imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan's party-backed independent candidates contesting the "fake win" of prominent PML-N figures.

"The Supreme Court in another case categorically ruled that the extraordinary jurisdiction of the high court cannot be reduced to an ordinary jurisdiction of the high court as there will be disputed questions of facts which cannot be resolved," Lahore High Court Justice Ali Baqar Najafi stated during his hearing on the maintainability of the petitions.

(With inputs from agencies)

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), stated on Tuesday that he will not run for prime minister, acknowledging that his party lacks the authority to form the government at the federal level.

Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, the leader of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), stated on Tuesday that he will not run for prime minister, acknowledging that his party lacks the authority to form the government at the federal level. These remarks come as discussions over the future prime minister of Pakistan are still ongoing. He declared at a news conference in Islamabad. "I will not be putting myself forward for the candidacy of prime minister of Pakistan due to this." Also read: Pakistan election results: Independents win most seats in final tally Rather than joining the federal government, the PPP has chosen to support the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) nominee for prime minister. "The PPP has determined that neither taking on ministries in such a system nor being able to join the federal government ourselves are our goals. We also hope to avoid political anarchy inside the nation. We want to avoid having a national crisis that never ends," he declared. Also read: Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari announces his candidacy for prime ministership, releases poll manifesto In order to establish political stability in Pakistan and help build the federal government, the PPP has now chosen to join forces with other political parties to form a committee. As the Majlis Wahdat-i-Muslimeen (MWM) and Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led by former prime minister Imran Khan, announced their intention to work together to form the government in both Punjab and the Central region. According to PTI spokesperson Raoof Hasan, the former prime minister has instructed the party to establish a coalition with Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) over reserved seats, while dismissing the possibility of any discussions with the PML-N, PPP, and MQM-P. This information was reported by a news agency. Watch: Pakistan: Bilawal Bhutto reacts to rising terror threat from Afghanistan × On Tuesday, a Pakistani court denied over thirty petitions submitted by imprisoned former prime minister Imran Khan's party-backed independent candidates contesting the "fake win" of prominent PML-N figures. "The Supreme Court in another case categorically ruled that the extraordinary jurisdiction of the high court cannot be reduced to an ordinary jurisdiction of the high court as there will be disputed questions of facts which cannot be resolved," Lahore High Court Justice Ali Baqar Najafi stated during his hearing on the maintainability of the petitions. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan elections: I will not be putting myself forward for PM candidacy, says Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari

Ahead of the February general elections, the chairman of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that his party won’t accept the results if any external interference is observed.

He claimed while speaking at a workers’ convention that parties with a two-thirds majority in the current parliament have agreed on the future setup. However, he stopped short of naming the parties he was referring to.

Notably, Bilawal’s party had backed the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) in the previous coalition government with Shehbaz Sharif being the prime minister.

<h2>Bhutto urges CJP and CEC to ensure fair elections</h2>

Earlier, he also urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to ensure a level playing field for all parties and fair elections.

“State institutions should play their role within the constitutional framework to ensure free, fair and impartial elections to steer the country out of the existing economic crisis,” he was quoted by Dawn as saying.

“We will accept only the decision of people’s vote and will not accept anyone else’s decision at all, because the existing problems can be solved only by a government elected by the people,” he said.

He also expressed doubts about how those who had run away from local elections were suddenly claiming that they would get a two-thirds majority, taking a jab at the Pakistan Muslim League party.

<h2>PTI expresses similar concerns</h2>

Along with Bhutto, former prime minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has also levelled allegations of election interference.

Watch:&nbsp;Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan?

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Both parties allege the caretaker government was giving "preferential treatment" to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party and that attempts were being made to pave the way for PML-N's return to power.

<h2>Caretaker PM hits back</h2>

Responding to the allegations, Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar said Sunday (Nov 19) that the “victim card” could be a “narrative” of any political party.

In an interview with Pakistan’s Geo News, Kakar said holding the elections at the earliest was his utmost priority. “We want to hand over the responsibilities to the [upcoming] elected government,” he was quoted as saying.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/pakistan-court-acquits-ex-pm-shehbaz-ten-others-in-major-housing-corruption-case-660318">Also read:&nbsp;Pakistan court acquits ex-PM Shehbaz Sharif, 10 others in major housing corruption case</a>

Notably, the general elections are scheduled for February 8, 2024, as announced by the ECP.

The notice stated that the general elections would be held on February 8, 2024, in accordance with the Supreme Court's ruling.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Ahead of the February general elections, the chairman of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that his party won’t accept the results if any external interference is observed.

Ahead of the February general elections, the chairman of Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari has warned that his party won’t accept the results if any external interference is observed. He claimed while speaking at a workers’ convention that parties with a two-thirds majority in the current parliament have agreed on the future setup. However, he stopped short of naming the parties he was referring to. Notably, Bilawal’s party had backed the Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) (PML-N) in the previous coalition government with Shehbaz Sharif being the prime minister. Bhutto urges CJP and CEC to ensure fair elections Earlier, he also urged the Chief Justice of Pakistan (CJP) and Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) to ensure a level playing field for all parties and fair elections. “State institutions should play their role within the constitutional framework to ensure free, fair and impartial elections to steer the country out of the existing economic crisis,” he was quoted by Dawn as saying. “We will accept only the decision of people’s vote and will not accept anyone else’s decision at all, because the existing problems can be solved only by a government elected by the people,” he said. He also expressed doubts about how those who had run away from local elections were suddenly claiming that they would get a two-thirds majority, taking a jab at the Pakistan Muslim League party. PTI expresses similar concerns Along with Bhutto, former prime minister Imran Khan-led Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party has also levelled allegations of election interference. Watch: Gravitas: Who is killing terrorists in Pakistan? × Both parties allege the caretaker government was giving "preferential treatment" to the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party and that attempts were being made to pave the way for PML-N's return to power. Caretaker PM hits back Responding to the allegations, Pakistan's caretaker Prime Minister Anwaarul Haq Kakar said Sunday (Nov 19) that the “victim card” could be a “narrative” of any political party. In an interview with Pakistan’s Geo News, Kakar said holding the elections at the earliest was his utmost priority. “We want to hand over the responsibilities to the [upcoming] elected government,” he was quoted as saying. Also read: Pakistan court acquits ex-PM Shehbaz Sharif, 10 others in major housing corruption case Notably, the general elections are scheduled for February 8, 2024, as announced by the ECP. The notice stated that the general elections would be held on February 8, 2024, in accordance with the Supreme Court's ruling. (With inputs from agencies)

Pakistan: Won’t accept poll results if meddling takes place, PPP chief Bilawal Bhutto warns

In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan's deputy Speaker on Sunday dismissed the no-trust motion against Pakistan&nbsp;Prime Minister Imran Khan amid uproar in Parliament

Imran Khan addressed the nation&nbsp;from PM's house in Islamabad as the National Assembly was in session. The Pakistan Prime Minister said, "I have sent advice to the President to dissolve the Assembly."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/live-pakistan-political-crisis-updates-will-pm-imran-khan-deliver-on-no-confidence-vote-day-467823">Also Read |&nbsp;LIVE: Pakistan Parliament&nbsp;no-confidence motion - as it happens</a>

The Pakistan prime minister said the deputy Speaker had "rejected the attempt of changing the regime and the foreign conspiracy".

In a short address to the nation, Imran said: "I want to say -&nbsp;do not worry,&nbsp;God is watching over Pakistan."

"Prepare for elections. No corrupt forces will decide what the future of the country will be. When the assemblies will be dissolved, the procedure for the next elections and the caretaker government will begin," the Pakistan prime minister told the nation.

Watch:&nbsp;Opposition destabilising nation, says Pak's foreign minister

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Imran asserted that billions of rupees were being spent to "buy" lawmakers as the opposition parties erupted in Parliament against the Speaker's move.

PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari however said the Speaker's ruling was "unconstitutional".

(With inputs from Agencies)

In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan's deputy Speaker on Sunday dismissed the no-trust motion against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan amid uproar in Parliament Imran Khan addressed the nation from PM's house in Islamabad as the National Assembly was in session.

In a dramatic turn of events, Pakistan's deputy Speaker on Sunday dismissed the no-trust motion against Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan amid uproar in Parliament Imran Khan addressed the nation from PM's house in Islamabad as the National Assembly was in session. The Pakistan Prime Minister said, "I have sent advice to the President to dissolve the Assembly." Also Read | LIVE: Pakistan Parliament no-confidence motion - as it happens The Pakistan prime minister said the deputy Speaker had "rejected the attempt of changing the regime and the foreign conspiracy". In a short address to the nation, Imran said: "I want to say - do not worry, God is watching over Pakistan." "Prepare for elections. No corrupt forces will decide what the future of the country will be. When the assemblies will be dissolved, the procedure for the next elections and the caretaker government will begin," the Pakistan prime minister told the nation. Watch: Opposition destabilising nation, says Pak's foreign minister Imran asserted that billions of rupees were being spent to "buy" lawmakers as the opposition parties erupted in Parliament against the Speaker's move. PPP leader Asif Ali Zardari however said the Speaker's ruling was "unconstitutional". (With inputs from Agencies)

'Prepare for elections': Imran's dramatic TV speech amid no-confidence motion

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday asserted that the option of dialogue at the national level will only be possible after the incumbent premier Imran Khan steps down from his post.

"Once the incumbent anti-people and illegitimate puppet prime minister steps down, this will pave the way for such a dialogue," he told a press conference, reported Dawn.

Bhutto-Zardari was on a visit to Thatta to offer his condolences to the family of the late Aijaz Ali Shah Sheerazi, a former adviser to the Sindh chief minister.

He said the only platform for a national dialogue would be the parliament, but before any such dialogue, the Prime Minister has to resign so that a political solution on issues faced by the people can be chalked out.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/us-house-introduces-bill-to-terminate-pakistan-as-major-non-nato-ally-354346" hreflang="en">US House introduces bill to terminate Pakistan as major non-NATO ally</a>

Lambasting the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government for its poor performance, the PPP chairman said every segment of society, including farmers, labourers and small traders were fed up of it.

"People are unable to send their children to schools and buy them essentially required commodities, medicines etc due to inflation and unemployment," he said.

Bhutto-Zardari further argued that Imran Khan could not even provide relief to workers by increasing their salaries nor could it raise the pension of retired people, while tariffs on electricity and gas continued to build up. He also said the premier has pushed Pakistan`s economy in shambles with its growth rate fallen below those of Bangladesh and Afghanistan.

He also accused the government of pleasing `mafias` by extending bailout packages worth billions of rupees to them.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/south-asia/islamic-state-claims-responsibility-for-attack-on-pakistans-shiite-hazara-minority-that-kills-11-354279" hreflang="en">Islamic State claims responsibility for attack on Pakistan's Shi'ite Hazara minority that kills 11</a>

Furthermore, Bilawal strongly condemned the killing of over 10 coal miners in Balochistan and asked the government to ensure the safety and security of the workers, while demanding the implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP), reported Dawn.

"Ever since the current government has come to power, we have been witnessing escape of terrorists from the custody of law enforcement agencies," he claimed.

He also slammed Imran Khan and Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed for not fulfilling their responsibilities and victimising the opposition and threatening the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) leaders instead.

He also reaffirmed PPP`s key role in the struggle against the federal government`s move to occupy provinces` islands.

Bilawal`s statement comes after the PDM held a political rally against the government in Bahawalpur. The 11-party opposition alliance has demanded the resignation of Imran Khan till January 31.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday asserted that the option of dialogue at the national level will only be possible after the incumbent premier Imran Khan steps down from his post.

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari on Sunday asserted that the option of dialogue at the national level will only be possible after the incumbent premier Imran Khan steps down from his post. "Once the incumbent anti-people and illegitimate puppet prime minister steps down, this will pave the way for such a dialogue," he told a press conference, reported Dawn. Bhutto-Zardari was on a visit to Thatta to offer his condolences to the family of the late Aijaz Ali Shah Sheerazi, a former adviser to the Sindh chief minister. He said the only platform for a national dialogue would be the parliament, but before any such dialogue, the Prime Minister has to resign so that a political solution on issues faced by the people can be chalked out. Also read| US House introduces bill to terminate Pakistan as major non-NATO ally Lambasting the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government for its poor performance, the PPP chairman said every segment of society, including farmers, labourers and small traders were fed up of it. "People are unable to send their children to schools and buy them essentially required commodities, medicines etc due to inflation and unemployment," he said. Bhutto-Zardari further argued that Imran Khan could not even provide relief to workers by increasing their salaries nor could it raise the pension of retired people, while tariffs on electricity and gas continued to build up. He also said the premier has pushed Pakistan`s economy in shambles with its growth rate fallen below those of Bangladesh and Afghanistan. He also accused the government of pleasing `mafias` by extending bailout packages worth billions of rupees to them. Also read| Islamic State claims responsibility for attack on Pakistan's Shi'ite Hazara minority that kills 11 Furthermore, Bilawal strongly condemned the killing of over 10 coal miners in Balochistan and asked the government to ensure the safety and security of the workers, while demanding the implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP), reported Dawn. "Ever since the current government has come to power, we have been witnessing escape of terrorists from the custody of law enforcement agencies," he claimed. He also slammed Imran Khan and Interior Minister Sheikh Rasheed for not fulfilling their responsibilities and victimising the opposition and threatening the Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) leaders instead. He also reaffirmed PPP`s key role in the struggle against the federal government`s move to occupy provinces` islands. Bilawal`s statement comes after the PDM held a political rally against the government in Bahawalpur. The 11-party opposition alliance has demanded the resignation of Imran Khan till January 31.

Bilawal Bhutto says national dialogue possible only after resignation of 'illegitimate' PM

Ahead of opposition alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement`s (PDM) sixth power show, Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday called on Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz at her Jati Umra residence, and said that the party's Central Executive Committee (CEC) will decide on en masse resignation of lawmakers from national and provincial assemblies.

There has been no change in PPP's stance over resigning from the national and Sindh assemblies, as Bilawal reportedly told Maryam that his party's CEC would have a final say in it, Dawn reported.

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"Whether we have to sacrifice the Sindh government and come out of the National Assembly or not, I am taking this matter to the party`s CEC for a consultation so that the selected and his facilitators should be sent home," he said.

He further claimed that there was no division in PDM on the issue of resignations from assemblies, adding that he was receiving the resignations of his party lawmakers in bulk.

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Reiterating that the upcoming rally would be historic, Bilawal said: "Imran should take stock of the situation and resign without further delay. Imran should accept the decision of the masses and step down."

Meanwhile, after the meeting, Maryam claimed that some ministers had contacted the PML-N and offered a dialogue, which she had outrightly declined, reported Dawn.

"For the last few days the senior leadership of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), including ministers, have been contacting the PML-N for talks. It is an ironic fact that Imran Khan who for the last two-and-a-half-year had been saying that he would not give NRO (National Reconcilation Ordinance) is now seeking it for himself (from the PDM). There will be no talks with the PTI government that had been formed through a stolen mandate. I have been against holding talks with this government from day one," she said.

She further mentioned that Imran Khan`s government had been unnerved ahead of the PDM rally.

Earlier, PM Imran Khan had appealed to the opposition alliance to postpone the anti-government in an effort to stem the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country.

The Pakistan government also flooded the Minar-e-Pakistan lawns in a "failed effort" to stop PDM from holding their rally on December 13.

Ahead of opposition alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement`s (PDM) sixth power show, Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday called on Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz at her Jati Umra residence, and said that the party's Central Executive Committee (CEC) will decide on en masse resignation of lawmakers from national and provincial assemblies.

Ahead of opposition alliance Pakistan Democratic Movement`s (PDM) sixth power show, Pakistan Peoples' Party (PPP) chairperson Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Friday called on Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) vice president Maryam Nawaz at her Jati Umra residence, and said that the party's Central Executive Committee (CEC) will decide on en masse resignation of lawmakers from national and provincial assemblies. There has been no change in PPP's stance over resigning from the national and Sindh assemblies, as Bilawal reportedly told Maryam that his party's CEC would have a final say in it, Dawn reported. Also read| Pakistan: 'Lion of Punjab' Maharaja Ranjit Singh's statue vandalised - again "Whether we have to sacrifice the Sindh government and come out of the National Assembly or not, I am taking this matter to the party`s CEC for a consultation so that the selected and his facilitators should be sent home," he said. He further claimed that there was no division in PDM on the issue of resignations from assemblies, adding that he was receiving the resignations of his party lawmakers in bulk. Also read| Video shows Jaish-e-Mohammad has resumed terror camps in Balakot Reiterating that the upcoming rally would be historic, Bilawal said: "Imran should take stock of the situation and resign without further delay. Imran should accept the decision of the masses and step down." Meanwhile, after the meeting, Maryam claimed that some ministers had contacted the PML-N and offered a dialogue, which she had outrightly declined, reported Dawn. "For the last few days the senior leadership of the Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf (PTI), including ministers, have been contacting the PML-N for talks. It is an ironic fact that Imran Khan who for the last two-and-a-half-year had been saying that he would not give NRO (National Reconcilation Ordinance) is now seeking it for himself (from the PDM). There will be no talks with the PTI government that had been formed through a stolen mandate. I have been against holding talks with this government from day one," she said. She further mentioned that Imran Khan`s government had been unnerved ahead of the PDM rally. Earlier, PM Imran Khan had appealed to the opposition alliance to postpone the anti-government in an effort to stem the rising cases of COVID-19 in the country. The Pakistan government also flooded the Minar-e-Pakistan lawns in a "failed effort" to stop PDM from holding their rally on December 13.

PPP to consult executive committee before resignation from assemblies: Bilawal Bhutto

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has made a comeback to political landscape after a year long gap. Sharif has been invited by PPP leader to attend a joint opposition meeting. Accepting the invitation Sharif joined the meeting virtually while bieng seated in the London.

Nawaz Sharif joined Pak's multi-party meeting virtually from London

Pakistan's former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif could be making a comeback into country's politics after a year long gap. Sharif has been invited by PPP leader to attend a joint opposition meeting.

Pakistan: PPP leader Bhutto invited Nawaz Sharif to key opposition meet