Talks: the way to go

Talks are a sine qua non for smooth functioning of democratic process. The belated initiative from PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif that all political parties, including the PTI, must huddle together for courting the country out of the prevailing poly crisis is appreciated, and should walk the talk. Political instability and severe economic downturn have taken a heavy toll and is now impacting the confidence of the masses in state-centrism as they are pissed to the core in terms of inflated energy bills and dipping purchasing power. The only element that can redress this pathetic state of affairs is unison of all political forces with the express understanding to work under the dictates of law and the Constitution.

The call for taking incarcerated leader Imran Khan's party on board, however, has come with some confusion. It seems the PML-N's second-tier leadership has reservations in rubbing shoulders with the PTI, which is also facing the ire of the powers-that-be, and this makes the proposition of talks a half-hearted affair. On the other hand, a section of the ruling dispensation had time and again taken to the media calling for a ban on PTI, and exterminating it from the political scene. This has damaged the process of any kind of reconciliation and weakened the democratic credentials of the beleaguered coalition.

The PTI itself is also full of ifs and buts and does not feel like negotiating with the ruling dispensation citing the post-February 8 ballot woes. This stagnation is in need of being addressed and the best way to overcome it is by exhibiting leadership. The PMLN and the PPP should walk an extra mile to oblige the PTI and try to address their grievances in a democratic and lawful prism. Release of political prisoners and a level-playing field in the legislature can be the starting point. The PTI leadership's thrust that it has nominated Mehmood Khan Achakzai as the point man for talks is an opportunity in disaster. The seasoned politician comes with wisdom and can set the ball rolling if appropriate political desire for meaningful talks is on the table. Time to seize Sharif's initiative and get going.