ISLAMABAD – In a significant political development, Chaudhry Usman Ali, an independent Member of the National Assembly (MNA) elected with backing from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), has formally joined the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N).
Elected from NA-142 (Sahiwal-II) in the February 2024 general elections, Usman Ali had secured a strong victory with over 107,000 votes, defeating his PML-N opponent by a notable margin. Despite his earlier alignment with PTI-backed independents, the lawmaker has now shifted his support to the ruling party.
Sources indicate that following his decision, Usman Ali has been allocated Rs200 million in development funds for his constituency. The funds are expected to support 17 development projects, including sewerage, drainage, and clean drinking water schemes, with completion targeted by the end of 2026.
The move comes days after Usman Ali voted in favour of the 26th Constitutional Amendment Bill, going against PTI’s party line—a signal that many interpreted as a prelude to his eventual defection. His vote, along with others, helped the ruling coalition pass key legislation with a comfortable majority.
Political analysts believe this defection reflects a broader trend among PTI-backed independents who are gradually aligning with the PML-N-led coalition, thereby strengthening the government’s position in the National Assembly.
The PML-N leadership has welcomed Chaudhry Usman Ali, citing his entry as an endorsement of the party’s governance priorities and its ongoing development initiatives.
Reported by PakTribune Political Desk
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