The way forward

The political opposition has come up with a coordinated narrative calling for resorting to democratic norms and undoing all extra-constitutional measures undertaken recently. Tehreek Tahaffuz-e-Ain Pakistan, the six-party conglomerate, has demanded an independent probe into the allegation of rigging in the February 2024 elections; appointment of an impartial chief election commissioner; holding polls afresh in a free and fair manner; and release of all political prisoners.

The alliance has resolved to work collectively for rule of law and supremacy of the Constitution - and has gathered support from saner elements in the ruling PML-N. This development on the political horizons should be seen as an opportunity in disaster to make a good start towards reconciliation in wider national interests.

However, the communiqué issued at the end of the two-day gathering of opposition stalwarts makes it clear that 'resistance' is the only way to go as the ruling dispensation has pushed the opposition to the wall. This hardening of stance is apparently a considered reaction to the unrelenting attitude of the coalition government. The silver lining though is an instant realisation from some senior PML-N leaders that dialogue is the way out, and it's time some progress was made earnestly.

The breakthrough, as far as a rejoinder to the opposition is concerned, is the PML-N leaders' concurrence on the "need for a new Charter of Democracy" to dilute political animosity in the country. The ruling dispensation leaders have urged PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif to "rise to the occasion and play his role in initiating a dialogue process among all stakeholders". If reason has any credence that is the way to go, and must walk the talk.

The minimum agenda that needs to be worked should feature a meaningful dialogue for taking the nation to a free and fair ballot; release of political prisoners; and a resolve to work within the ambit of the Constitution. It will be a win-win equation for stakeholders on both sides of the divide, and this is where state-centric forces must throw their ton for a grand political rapprochement.