One-time political allies have now turned rivals in the changing political scenario of the district. Dr Farrukh Javed ex-MNA of PML-Q has joined PML-N, following differences with Dr Junaid Joya ex-MPA of the party. He also failed to get the PML-Q ticket for PP-230, which was issued to a new candidate Chaudhry Naeem Ibrahim. He is now contesting from that constituency on the PML-N ticket.
Dr Junaid Joya a PML-Q candidate for NA-166 and his uncle former district nazim Amjad Joya have developed differences with their close friend Ameer Hamza Rath who too has joined PML-N, and is their candidate from PP-231.
Meanwhile, PML-Q has issued ticket to ex-MPA Pir Kashif Chishti who was a PML-N strongman in the elections of 2002. Former ministers Raja Shahid Saeed and Tikka Muhammad Iqbal have also announced their support to the PML-N from NA-166, while Rana Zahid Hussain is also a strong contender. Analysts observe that a tough fight is likely between the political big shots of the area in constituencies PP-230 and PP-231 in the January 8 general elections.