Chaudharys should be taken along
IN an atmosphere where political scenario is already very cloudy, the
reported attempts by certain quarters to effect a change in the top
leadership of the PML, usually known as ‘Q’ faction, would further
weaken the political fabric of the country.
Of course, party workers or central organs of the party like Central
Executive Committee or General Council are fully empowered to elect or
remove any office-bearer in a democratic party at any time if the
situation so demands but no other quarter has any right to do so for
whatever reasons. In our view, Chaudharys played a crucial role during
the most turbulent period by lending necessary support to the system.
They effectively managed to keep together heterogeneous elements of the
party for full five years and it was because of their contribution that
the assemblies were able to complete the constitutionally mandated term.
There were apprehensions that after return to Pakistan of Mian Nawaz
Sharif, PML(Q) would lose its charm and its members would desert en
masse but here again Chaudhary brothers demonstrated their skills to
keep the party intact despite some defections. Secondly, Chaudharys have
the necessary flexibility to adapt themselves to the dictates of the
present-day requirements i.e. national reconciliation, as they don’t
have obstructionist mind. Other names being floated by some circles are
inflexible, not approachable and have aristocratic attitude. We are,
therefore, convinced that change of leadership in PML at this stage
would not be prudent and instead undermine the political culture. |
