Islamabad, Aug 21 : Non-reinstatement of sacked Pakistan chief justice Iftikhar Muhammad Chaudhry was a part of the “deal” which had been agreed between the federal coalition government and former President Pervez Musharraf before the latter’s (Musharraf) resignation, sources privy to the deal revealed.

According to them, the deal was struck with the help of Saudi Arabia and the United Kingdom.

Chaudhry’s non-reinstatement has created differences between the PPP and the PML-N – the two major parties in the ruling coalition. While Nawaz is adamant for Iftikhar to be reinstated, Zardari appears in mood to oblige the former premier.

A proposal for appointing a new chief justice is being considered, the sources said, and the PML-N is likely to abandon the alliance – in which case a large number of legislators from the Altaf Hussain-led MQM and the PML-Quaid would join the coalition, reported the Daily Times.

Crucial political decisions are expected within the next three days, said the sources and added that Iftikhar Chaudhry would not be reinstated because he might initiate cases against Musharraf. (ANI)