Sources told Arab News, “Muqam wanted to be the minister of water and power but the portfolio was not given to him.”

Political observers say Muqam resigned because of the dwindling popularity of Gilani government.

President of PML-Q Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain and Senior Federal Minister Chaudhry Pervez Elahi met him to allay his concern but failed to sway him. He has sent his resignation to Shujaat.

Muqam had demanded the government end loadshedding and force US to stop US drone strikes in tribal areas.

Sources said Muqam has assured party leadership he would remain in the PML(Q).