PMLN: 5 Years Of Roller Coaster Ride

As the five years of PMLN come to an end, we surely can say it was nothing less than a movie with all the drama, action, and emotions of all sorts. When they came into power surely they were the most powerful government which must have been formed in 'democracy' after the 1997 elections. They had two thirds majority in place which was enough to strengthen and expand their power base if they had been able to deliver with good governance model.

However, as PMLN's natural inclination to fall on their own weight, they did live up to their expectations. Starting from the initial period, when Nawaz Sharif had met Imran Khan he had the chance to resolve all matters amicably. But instead, PMLN kept delaying the investigations into 'elections rigging' until the matter was finally escalated to the streets of Islamabad. This not only damaged PMLN credibility but deeply weakened their power in Islamabad. I believe that this was the defining moment from which the downhill of PMLN started and they, despite having two thirds majority, showed signs of vulnerability when General Raheel Sharif had to intervene during the 'Dharna.

As they say, that 'absolute power corrupts'; this is what happened with PMLN. They went into their comfort zone that no one can shake their reigns of power as the traditional rival PPP was rejected in the last elections. And knowing PTI's electoral politics they knew that Imran Khan cannot 'buy' the system. But, God has its own ways to balance things. Right after the impacting 'Dharna' was over then came the mother of all scandals; Panama Leaks.

Even when the Panama Leaks came there was lot of room for Nawaz Sharif to resolve the matter amicably. But, as in the case of Pakistan's political history all our leaders have tend to listened to different people when in power, compared to the sincere loyalists who have been there at difficult times. There is no doubt in ones mind that PMLN has a strong group of loyalists and sincere cadre which has the capability to deliver results. But, in PMLN's case the hawks overtook the scenario and then came in the demise of Pakistan's most powerful governing political party.

The main reason for Nawaz Sharif to be at this stage, is his anti state rhetoric ranging from 'tricks' behind the scene to direct statements against the Army. Then, to top it all is the corruption scandals which surfaced after the emergency of Panama Leaks, eventually leading to judiciary of getting active and taking its course. I strongly believe that Maryam Nawaz played a key role in bringing her party to this juncture. Maybe it is her aspiration to be the next Prime Minister or her desire to be a role model like Benazir Bhutto. But surely she did not advise well to her father, when he needed her the most. In this process, many sincere and wise leaders were sidelined. 

Meanwhile, in PMLN's tenure there were also moments of relief especially at the front of CPEC, increasing of power generation across Pakistan, and maintaining of law and order in the society. They surely had the golden opportunity to be in power for another decade at least, but once again Nawaz Sharif did what he does best; be his own enemy. 

Let us hope that after the next elections, there will be maturity shown on part of PMLN to accept the incoming government if it is different from theirs. And they do not play the same role as they did in the 90s as they are known to be the impatient opposition when not in power. 

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Imran Khan; The International Statesman?

Since the days of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, more than three decades, we have not seen Pakistan commanding the reigns of international politics. If you recall, in 1970s it was Pakistan which was at the forefront to lead the OIC (Organization of Islamic Countries). It was during the time that Pakistan was the first country to recognize United Arab Emirates. We played a pivotal role in influencing Saudi rulers to take a stand against the misuse of resources by the vested interests. At that time, the world’s leading banking phenomenon BCCI took its existence. We had a surplus of intellectual policy makers, thinkers, and poets which had a vision for the future of Pakistan. Our country was seen with lot of respect amongst the international community, especially the Middle East. But, ever since the Zia era and then the unfortunate entry of corrupt politics of 90’s, Pakistan started to see its demise in terms of commanding respect by international players.

After seeing the speech of Imran Khan today, it seems that he has all the ingredients to become the ideal ambassador of Pakistan in international arena but with lot of radical changes in his approach. So far, whenever Imran Khan has addressed think tanks, crowds of smaller size such as business community, or on policy making matters he has always outshined the expectations. In addition, whenever he has given interviews to international media they have always been seen with lot of interest and importance. Right now, there is no doubt with recent importance of CPEC, countries like China and Russia have cozied up to Pakistan. But, the main interest of engagement is the Pakistan Army. As far as Imran Khan is concerned, he needs to realign his team for foreign policy matter. Let us look at the regional players which are relevant for Pakistan, and their terms with Imran Khan. China panicked in 2016, when Imran Khan was attributed to some statements regarding CPEC. Turkey was not very fond of Imran Khan when he opposed the shutting down of schools in KPK, owned by Gulen. Same is the impression which pertains at powerful quarters in Saudi Arabia and United Arab Emirates. Last year, Council of Arab Ambassadors requested and received meeting with leaders of all major political parties in Pakistan but PTI failed to give any response. As per sources, recently PTI had requested a meeting with the Arab ambassadors and we was politely rebuffed, citing timings restrictions. Therefore, it is highly important for Imran Khan to revamp his foreign policy strategy.

As the establishment supports the democratic process in Pakistan, it is important for them also to have someone at Islamabad who can share the burden of international diplomacy. We need to understand that despite all the goodwill of Pakistan Army, the international key policy makers always admire if there is a democratic face to whom they can speak to for bilateral relations. With the upsetting situation in the region of Middle East, Pakistan’s role is becoming more and more vital. It will be important also for Pakistan to finally hire an effective lobbyists team in Washington to engage them. But, with changing times and geo-politics you can never say no to a possibility.

The biggest plus for Pakistan is that they are no more dependent on US political leaders. As we all know, that since a long time US has had a great influence in Pakistan’s politics. And that has been the key factor in allowing the likes of corrupt leaders to keep taking turns in Pakistan’s politics. Even Musharraf, being the most powerful man by controlling the top position of Army and Presidency, had to eventually budge in to pressure of NRO. Now, the dynamics are different as both autocratic China and Russia are favoring Pakistan. This means that Imran Khan, assuming to be the next PM, we will have a much more room to flex his political muscles in the international arena assuming he steps up in being more welcoming. Unfortunately, for Pakistan we have not been so prominent in addressing international platforms mainly because our last few Prime Ministers or Presidents were all indebted to international favors. Now, is the time when we can have a PM who has no favor to return to international kingmakers.

If Imran Khan does get his residence at the Prime Minister House, he should focus his first few days in exchanging warm wishes with all countries across the Globe, especially the ones with influence. And post 60 days, he should engage on a tour to re-organize the Middle East countries along with international players who are of significant importance. He may be a popular and well known personality in Pakistan, but the international policymakers still have a lot to know about this potential PM candidate.

To conclude, we hope that Pakistan’s green passport is respected again like in the 70s across the globe. We are able to pass through immigration queues across the globe with respect. We are able to attain visas for business, education and tourism with ease. Like it or not, but for above to take place we do need a strong international statesman at the helm of affairs.  

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