Asif Ali Zardari once again refuses to meet Nawaz Sharif

Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari refused to meet deposed Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif saying that the latter is responsible for the current political situation of the country, local media reported today.

According to media reports, this is the fourth time within three months that Sharif’s attempt to hold a meeting with Zardari has ended in vain. Zardari refused to join hands with Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz and said that Sharif only wants to use charter of democracy for his personal gains.

“Sharif is responsible for the current political situation of the country. Meeting him or shaking his hand is [out of the question],” Geo News quoted Zardari.

A day earlier, Prime Minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi had approached top leadership of PPP in a bid to win the party’s support to pass a bill allowing fresh delimitation of constituencies. The PM had also requested Khursheed Shah to arrange a meeting with PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari.

On Wednesday, while speaking to media, Sharif lamented the PPP moving of the amendment bill. “The PPP’s support for this bill hurt me. The party’s action has made me question their democratic credentials,” he said. Sharif had also expressed his willingness to  have unconditional dialogue with the PPP leader.