A good omen
It’s a good omen that the two rounds of parleys between the government and the opposition, in an attempt to ward off the crisis by deciding over the date for elections, have made some headway. And despite the late-night raid at the residence of PTI President Chaudhry Pervez Elahi, the two sides have agreed to continue the talks. This is one of the most encouraging developments in recent weeks and months, as stalemate and politics of connivance had pushed the country to the brink of extra-constitutional intervention. It goes without saying that the talks, even now, are not being held out of a democratic spirit among politicians, but at the behest of the apex court that sits in judgement to take a call. The government had defied the judicial ruling and the constitutional dictum by refusing to hold polls in Punjab on May 14, citing unqualified exigencies. Doubling down, while the body language of both the sides seemed positive and none played to the gallery by throwing a spanner in the works, one hopes representative rule and spirit of accommodation in Westminster politics will pave the way for a win-win deal.
Pakistan is at the cusp of an existential crisis. Apart from the economic decline, the country has over the last many months slipped into an institutional row that threatens the very system at vogue. Coupled with this is the tug of war between the parliament and the judiciary, which portrays a perfect synopsis for military intervention, if wayward steps go unchecked. This is where these talks become more important, and there is no room for failing. One hopes the ongoing dialogue will not be a déjà vu of Bhutto-PNA tete-a-tete, and will lead to a profound judgmental decision to further the envelope of democracy. The Supreme Court too wants such a breakthrough from the political folks, and its restraining of robes in calling for contempt is highly appreciated.
As feuding sides meet for a third-round of talks tomorrow, the intention should be to carry the day for democracy. It is better advised that none should leap for a rushed outcome, as politics is all about getting convinced.
Published in The Express Tribune, May 1st, 2023.
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