The PPP is still confident that it can still lure its former coalition
partner MQM back into coalition. Close friends of President Zardari are
claimed to be working on the task. The MQM has been offered a kind of
accommodation in the Commissionerate and the local bodies systems in
the metropolis so that its areas of influence is not hurt.

Sources in the PPP told the Point Online that Agha Siraj Durrani's
meeting with Governor Sindh Mr. Ibad was also aimed at extending the
same offer. Some insiders claim the two parties have developed an
initial understanding for a re-shake of hands and it is expected that
the formal decision would take more a less two weeks to be announced.
The PPP and the MQM teams are expected to sit around the table to
create space for each other, sources said.
A PPP leader told TP Online on condition of anonymity that the
President wanted his government to complete its tenure which would
ensure PPP's success in the next general elections.
The new accord with the MQM would also reinforce the perception that
the PPP especially its co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari mastered the art of
buying his estranged partners back into his fold.
The move would frustrate plans of the PPP’s rival the PML (N) feeling
alienation because of President's reconciliation policy.
Meanwhile, MQM chief Altaf Hussein extended a hand of friendship for
what he said sake of Pakistan.
Addressing the party’s coordination committees in London and Karachi
simultaneously, Altaf said Pakistan’s security institutions are facing
an odd situation due to the unacceptable attitude of the West led by
the United States. He said he was willing to talk to all parties in the
best interest of the country.
Altaf also urged political parties and workers to stay calm and respect
everyone’s life and property. He said all people from all sections of
life and ethnicities would have to work together for peace in Karachi.
He said he was pleading patience for Pakistan’s sake. He said all must
think about Pakistan, rising above the party lines or affiliations. He
said the leaders and workers of MQM, ANP and PPP should coordinate to
restore peace in Karachi. (July 26, 2011)