Talibanisation, LG system dominate PPP-MQM talks

KARACHI - Two-point agenda containing amendments in the local government (LG) system and Talibanisation, dominated the first round of talks between PPP and MQM in London.

The PPP delegation, led by Pakistan High Commissioner to UK Wajid Shamsul Hassan, consisted of senior minister Pir Mazhar-ul-Haq, Sindh Home Minister Dr Zulifqar Mirza, Speaker Sindh Assembly and NRB Chairman Dr Asim. While the MQM delegation comprised MQM Rabita Committee Deputy Convenor Dr Farooq Sattar, City Nazim Mustafa Kamal, Sindh governor Dr Ishratul Ebad Khan and other MQM Rabita Committee members.

PPP and MQM had developed differences over threat of Talibanisation in Karachi, abolition of the local government system and job quota in the Sindh government.

Consequent upon MQM refusal to join the federal cabinet and PM Gilani’s repeated offer to MQM to join the government, Dr Mirza and Haq had been to London to hold talks with MQM top London-based leadership to resolve outstanding issues.