By Imtiaz Hussain
SUKKUR: Leader of the Pakistan People’s Party (Shaheed Bhutto), Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Junior, met Pir Sahab Pagara, Pir Sibghatullah Shah Rashdi, to discuss the current political situation at Pagara’s residence in Sikandarabad.
The discussion, attended by Syed Muhammad Rashid Shah Rashidi, focused on forming a broader political alliance aimed at consolidating influence across Sindh. Sources indicated that senior politicians from Shikarpur, Larkana, Dadu, and Sanghar were expected to join the Functional Muslim League (FML-F) in the coming weeks, further bolstering the party’s ranks.
The engagement between Bhutto and Pir Pagara appeared to formalize a working partnership, with both leaders agreeing to collaborate closely. Observers noted that this alliance could provide the FML with a stronger platform to launch its political campaigns, particularly in rural constituencies where traditional feudal and spiritual leadership continue to hold sway.
Meanwhile, a notable realignment in Sindh’s political landscape emerged on Sunday as Sardar Moazzam Ali Abbasi formally joined the Functional Muslim League. Reports also suggested that the influential Mirs of Kotdiji were preparing to enter the political arena, adding weight to the FML’s growing momentum.
Speaking to supporters, Pir Pagara criticized the recent electoral process as “pre-determined”, claiming that even children could foresee the outcome. He alleged that deals had been made in advance to ensure the defeat of certain individuals, despite his party’s overall victory. Emphasizing resilience, he said the Grand Democratic Alliance (GDA) would continue to endure.
Abbasi and Bhutto Junior additionally criticized the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) for neglecting its traditional voter base, signaling that economic grievances would play a central role in the FML’s political messaging in the months ahead.
