The elections for NA-148 and NA-149 of Multan are expected to present dramatic results as arch rivals belonging to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) and Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), two mainstream political parties are challenging each other for the seats.
Shah Mehmood Qureshi, Makhdoom Javed Hashmi and former Punjab Minister (PML-Q) for Social Welfare, Rai Mansab Ali Khan are trying hard to muster enough support for their success while the role of political parties has been marginalised by the influence of local groups and clans in these two constituencies.
In Qadarpur Ran, Tatepur, 19-Kassi, Pull- Chattha, Pull-Rango Mati-Tal areas, there are three prominent candidates including the last time winner Makhdoom Shah Mehmood Qureshi who defeated Javed Hashmi. The other candidate is District President of PML-Q and former Minister of Punjab who is in the race as a candidate of the PML-Q.
Though, candidates from mainstream opposition contesting one another is a rare instance experienced in the constituency since the last elections, the elections 2008 in these constituencies would produce exciting conclusions.