POLARISATION was already deep because of extreme positions adopted by the government and the opposition yet it has assumed dangerous levels in the wake of submission of notice for no-trust move against Prime Minister Imran Khan.
As Mr Khan once again demonstrated his firm determination to defeat the move claiming that he will take three wickets with one ball, the opposition has threatened that it would take to streets if the no-confidence motion fizzled out.
The claims and counter-claims notwithstanding, the fact remains that the situation is still fluid and no one is sure of success in number game because of fast-changing political developments.
Presently, total number of disgruntled elements of PTI has assumed greater significance as the opposition is mainly banking upon their support and the very fact that government is formulating strategies to prevent them from voting on the motion is reflective of the concerns of treasury benches.
The ruling party plans for show of strength in front of Parliament House on the eve of voting also speak volumes about stakes involved yet things could take an ugly turn as the opposition too has indicated it would also go for a similar approach.
Political bitterness is increasing with the passage of time and it is apprehended that situation could go violent and out of control if both sides proceed with their plans.
The policy of ‘wait and see’ adopted by coalition partners of PTI has also added to political confusion.
There were two separate developments on this matter on Friday.Federal Minister Fawad Chaudhary, after a meeting with PML (Q) leader Pervez Elahi, claimed that concerns of the party have largely been addressed and it would soon announce its categorical support to the government on the issue of no-trust move.
PML (Q) is vying for the slot of Chief Minister in Punjab and as per newspaper reports the ministerial committee gave an impression that the Prime Minister has agreed to bring about a change in Punjab but incumbent CM Usman Buzdar apparently consolidated his position further as a number of MPAs met him on Friday including those belonging to dissident Tareen Group.
His position seems to be secure as earlier during his one-day trip to Lahore, the Prime Minister is reported to have reposed confidence in Buzdar.
And in Sindh, leaders of another ally of the government, the MQM had inconclusive meeting with the PPP leadership with reports emerging that the MQM was ready to extend its support to the opposition provided Mian Shahbaz Sharif and Maulana Fazlur Rehman act as guarantor for acceptance of the party’s demands relating to the Sindh Government.
At the same time, Aleem Khan, one of the prominent figures in PTI, met PML (N) Quaid Mian Nawaz Sharif in London and they reportedly finalised details for mutual cooperation.
BAP and GDA too are not as forthcoming as they should have in extending their support to the government triggering fears that they could also swing either way.
While political developments are taking place at an accelerated pace due to paucity of time (for convening of NA session and voting on the motion), political leaders are adding to the tense atmosphere by indulging in foul language in their speeches and statements.
Prime Minister Imran Khan persisted with name calling during his address to the public meeting in Dir on Friday prompting strong reaction from the opposition leaders, reflecting poorly on the overall conduct of the politicians.
Minister for Interior Sheikh Rasheed Ahmad, instead of adopting fire-fighting strategies, is adding fuel to the fire.
After floating the idea of giving a call to PTI workers to gather in front of Parliament House (for thanks-giving prayer), he hurled threats of crushing all those who would create trouble.
He easily forgot that action of the Islamabad Police against elected representatives a day earlier virtually opened the possibility of physical confrontation and street agitation.
The uncertainty caused by the political upheavals is hurting interests of the people of Pakistan who have been left at the mercy of inflation mafia.
Both sides should, therefore, demonstrate political maturity, play the game while remaining strictly within the bounds of Constitution and law.
PTI Government should also focus on good governance.
