President Zardari departs Lahore after two‑day visit, holds only one meeting with Interior Minister.

President Asif Ali Zardari stayed in Lahore for about two days before leaving for Islamabad. While in the city, he did not hold any meetings with local party leaders. A source close to the party said he was there to address urgent matters away from public attention. The president met only once, with Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi. The minister was accompanied by businessman Gohar Ejaz at the meeting. Other leaders tried to arrange talks with Zardari, but their requests were declined. Rumors had circulated that PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari had left Pakistan. When asked about the rumours, the source said he had heard them but could not confirm or deny them. The Punjab Pakistan People’s Party has opposed the creation of new administrative units and has criticized the Pakistan Muslim League‑N for governing on state support. The president has also previously withheld approval for the elevation of certain judges. The Express Tribune made no comments on whether Zardari’s visit was related to the rumours about Bilawal. No additional information about his departure from Lahore or his current location has been released.