No Zardari Exit, Govt Depends on PPP: Bukhari

Islamabad –Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Secretary General Nayyar Hussain Bukhari has dismissed all rumors suggesting that President Asif Ali Zardari may be removed from office. He also made it clear that the PPP has no plans to join the federal cabinet.

In a press statement, Bukhari said, “The government cannot function without the support of the PPP. There is no truth to the speculations about President Zardari.” He added that those spreading such rumors have no knowledge of the Constitution or the law.

These rumors began after the Election Commission of Pakistan reinstated reserved seats, giving the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and its allies a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly. This sparked speculation about a possible constitutional amendment and a change in presidency.

Bukhari’s remarks were supported by PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui, who stated on a private TV channel: “There is no proposal to remove President Zardari under consideration at any level.” He emphasized that President Zardari is fulfilling his constitutional role responsibly and effectively.

Senator Siddiqui also clarified that while PPP is not part of the federal cabinet, it remains a key ally in the coalition government led by the PML-N. “Being in a coalition doesn’t mean full agreement on every issue,” he said.

Earlier, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also rejected the speculation. Speaking during a visit to Sindh on the eve of Ashura, he said: “These are just social media rumors. For the first time, the government, politicians, and military are on the same page, and some elements are unhappy with that.”

The PPP’s clear stance aims to end the uncertainty surrounding its role in the federal government and reaffirms President Zardari’s continued position as head of state.