The political scenario in Pakistan showed its ugly side yet again, with the former Prime Minister, Nawaz Sharif publicly acknowledging that his Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz) is pulling out from the newly formed coalition government as no consensus between Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and his party could be reached to facilitate the reinstatement of the ousted judges (sacked by President Musharraf). This very ouster of the Chief Justice of Pakistan, Mr Iftikhar M. Choudhry, had led to countrywide protests and agitation where hordes from judicial fraternity had courted arrest against Musharraf’s move.
Giving a clear hint of vindication – Nawaz Sharif was overthrown way back in 1999 by Musharraf in a coup when he was the army chief – with this decision, he may have aired his intention to his coalition partner, Mr Zardari. Of late, differences between the coalition partners too have come for some scrutiny, with neither of them clearly stating their stand on Musharraf’s continuity.
The timing of the decision could not have been more inappropriate for Nawaz Sharif simply because Ishaq Dar, the Finance Minister in his cabinet of ministers, was slated to come up with his annual budget in next couple of weeks. Nawaz Sharif said,
We want the unconditional, dignified and honourable return of the judges. For the time being, we’ll not sit in opposition. We will not be part of any conspiracy aimed at strengthening dictatorships.
If the tug-of-war between the coalition partners on this issue doesn’t reach to its logical ends very soon, Pakistan could witness (after years of military regime) a serious jolt to the just introduced democracy. So, its time for Nawaz Sharif for some serious introspection, which might give the country respite from such hiccups.
The international audience will closely monitor the developments, especially the king makers United States and Britain. If reports are to be believed, rival faction PPP has already shown its desire to work out a formula which will allow Musharraf to continue in office, by relinquishing few powers, e.g. the right to dismiss Parliament.
Source: Timesonline
