Hopeful signs

PTI and PML-N burying the hatchet?

After PTI formally called off talks with the government nearly seven weeks back, there are again signs of the two sides being desirous of burying the hatchet. Unless there is a respite to the agitational politics, both would emerge weakened from the long drawn out confrontation. Important decisions requiring a consensus between major political players are on the agenda now, beginning with the appointment of a permanent CEC. Like the PML-N and PPP, the PTI too is unwilling to keep the selection confined to the judiciary. Electoral reforms are another issue which requires the active participation of the PTI in the ongoing deliberations. Unless this is done, the next elections will remain disputed irrespective of whether these are held in 2018 or earlier.

The government has reasons to be worried about the continuation of the sit-in. The Finance Minister has claimed that the activity has caused losses to national economy and has scared away prospective investors. Unless the government is able to deliver, it may not be possible for it to complete its tenure or win the next elections. The PTI has given a call for a big rally in Islamabad at the end of this month. The party may succeed in putting up a show of strength but carrying on the activity after a realisation that the army and the judiciary are unwilling to upset the system may look to many party leaders as a futile activity.

The saner elements in the PTI realise now that seeking the PM’s resignation is not an achievable goal. To be able to persuade the PTI to take back resignations, the PML-N has to accept some of its demands. A satisfactory investigation into the rigging can be one.

It is significant that neither side seems keen to hold the talks through intermediaries like the political jirga. Both must have realised by now what they can concede to reach an accord. It is time that fully authorised committees are appointed to put an end to fruitless to-ing and fro-ing.