MQM quits government

KARACHI: Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) said Monday it had quit the beleaguered administration, citing the "dictatorial" and "brutal" approach of the ruling Pakistan People's Party.

"The MQM leadership and workers have reached the conclusion it is difficult to go along with the Pakistan People's Party, keeping in view its democratic and dictatorial attitude," senior party official Farooq Sattar told reporters.

"The PPP was unwilling to mend its ways leaving us with no option but to quit the coalition government," Sattar said, adding that MQM lawmakers in federal and provincial assemblies would sit on opposition benches.

"Governor Ishratul Ibad Khan has resigned from his post and sent the resignation to the president's house in Islamabad for approval," spokesman Syed Wajahat Ali told AFP.

Sattar accused the PPP of "forcing" the MQM to withdraw from elections in Jammu Kashmir.

"When we refused to change our stance, the PPP got the elections for Kashmiri migrants residing in Karachi cancelled on the pretext of security issues," Sattar said.

"It is not possible for us to partner with the PPP any further because of its brutal, ruthless and disloyal character to its partners," said Sattar as hundreds of party workers loudly chanted party slogans.

"We have made a decision after drawn-out deliberations. It is not a sentimental decision and we'll stick to it to remain on opposition benches," he added.

"Our resignations are ready and will be sent soon to the authorities."

Copyright AFP (Agence France-Presse), 2011