DESPITE differences of policy and approach, political parties winning mandate of the people in February 08 elections have demonstrated maturity by sorting out issues in the formation of a coalition government in an amicable manner which would help prevent yet another political crisis in the country. The split mandate given by the people in the general election has forced political parties to review their strategies and appreciably they have decided to come together to take the country out of the prevailing mess.
The uncertainty about future set-up at the Centre and the provinces ended after PPP withdrew its bid for the coveted office of the Prime Minister with Bilawal Bhutto Zardari announcing he would not be a candidate for the slot and instead the party would support the candidate of the PML(N). Initially, statements emanating from some party leaders hinted that the PPP was open to forging alliance with the PTI, whose supported candidates emerged as the largest group in the National Assembly. This was despite the fact that the PML(N), immediately after the polls, extended a hand of friendship towards PPP. However, the party’s move was not received with the same spirit by the PTI as Imran Khan categorically stated that there would be no talks or partnership with PML(N), PPP and MQM(P). The rebuffing statement served not only a severe blow to the plans of the PPP to form its own government bypassing PML(N) and with the cooperation of PTI-backed independents but also closed the possibility of PTI forming its government at the Centre as with the exception of PML(N), PPP and MQM(P), other parties could secure seats that can be counted on finger tips – not enough to bring about a significant impact on the election of the chief executive of the country. However, one must give credit to former President Asif Ali Zardari who renewed offer to PTI to join hands with other parties to take the country forward. It is also a reality that the PPP has gained much by withdrawing from the race to the PM House as it is eyeing several crucially important constitutional offices. Its decision to support the PML(N) without joining the coalition government is an attempt to absolve itself of the hard decisions that the new set-up will have to take during initial months and even during two-three years to stabilize the economy. At the same time, it wants the Presidency, Speakership of the National Assembly and office of the Chairman Senate, which effectively means the PML(N)-led coalition government would be at the mercy of PPP as far as legislation and major policies (requiring parliamentary approval) are concerned. Some analysts also apprehend that the PPP might cash upon the opportunity if PML(N) becomes further alienated from the people due to harsh decisions and absence of any meaningful relief for the masses. The emerging arrangement also makes it clear that the wish of PML(N) supremo Mian Nawaz Sharif to become the Prime Minister for the fourth time is not going to materialize as instead Shehbaz Sharif would be the party’s candidate for the office of the PM. It is not clear whether it was the Sharif family’s own decision or the party was forced to do so under pressure from other parties and stakeholders. However, it has officially been announced by the PML(N) that Maryam Nawaz would be the party’s choice for Punjab Chief Minister. It is now a foregone conclusion that she is going to become the first women Chief Minister of the largest province of the country as the party has mustered necessary strength to get its candidates elected after several independents joined it after elections. The PTI too has announced that Ali Amin Gandapur is going to be its pick for the office of Chief Minister of KP, a move which is seen as a sign of defiance and preference for confrontation in view of the track record and behaviour of the nominee. The PTI has also given a harsh and unbecoming reaction to the decision of other parties to join hands for the formation of the government at the Centre. This is in sharp contrast to the reconciliatory tone of Mr. Zardari and categorical statement of Shehbaz Sharif that they accept the mandate given to PTI-backed independents and would welcome them if they can muster necessary strength to form the government.
