With the ouster of the prime minister now seen as imminent, there is intense speculation whether the opposition will be able to form the government or will fall apart soon after. There are also concerns whether the current assembly will complete its term or fresh elections will be called.
PM Imran Khan believes that early elections are the best option if he survives the no-confidence motion. The opposition does not seem to have reached a decision on the future course of action and is instead suggesting ‘reforms’ before holding polls. The prime minister is confident the PTI will win the next polls but the question remains if he will have the mandate to call the next elections.
The current government seems to have the same fate of its predecessors, who have either been ousted through undemocratic means or forced to resign. To date, no prime minister has completed a full five-year term and the incumbent could soon among the list. Pakistan’s politics also has a checkered past and it seems the situation is unlikely to change and strengthen democratic traditions.
Amid the political uncertainty, the prime minister should seek a graceful exit. In case the no-confidence motion succeeds, Imran Khan will have dubious distinction of the being the only prime minister to be removed in parliament. The opposition calls it a democratic way to oust the government but it adds to uncertainty in a country suffering from an economic crisis.
Imran Khan emerged as popular leader on the back of resentment against the political order that ruled the nation for decades. Unfortunately, he was not unable to bring electoral reforms or accountability as promised. He now want the people to provide a simple majority in the next elections to avoid having to rely on unreliable allies or turncoats which has made him vulnerable to the no-confidence motion.
Political parties across both sides show gear up for the elections irrespective of the no-confidence vote result. It is the sign of democratic society to hold snap polls if the leader’s popularity is declining or a new one has being brought in. It is also graceful way to step down and walk if you have lost support. This may be a tough decision but is the right one to be made.
