It seems that PML-N has finally decided to contest the Senate elections and defer the decision of resigning from the assemblies. This is a major shift among the PDM which has been threatening to sabotage the Senate elections by resigning to prevent the ruling PTI from gaining a majority.
The PML-N has called the PPP’s decision to file a no-confidence motion against the prime minister as ‘impracticable’ and wants to continue the rhetoric against state institutions by holding regular protests. The party has also failed to give a date for the decisive long march to Islamabad and the protests and rallies are rather ineffective. The PPP, on the other hand, has opposed boycotting the Senate elections or resigning from assemblies and is struggling to convince the opposition alliance.
The PML-N held a parliamentary meeting in Parliament House which was ironically chaired by Maryam Nawaz who is not a member of parliament. The opposition was supposed to hold a dialogue with members of the government but the PML-N did not turn up and instead decided to continue the narrative and use the option of resignations at the ‘right time’. The party stands confused and is unable to form a coherent strategy in its attempt to oust the government.
The PML-N is certainly facing a leadership crisis with Nawaz Sharif out of the political scenario and Shehbaz Sharif in prison. Maryam Nawaz is making decisions based on her political inexperience rather than far-sightedness. There is a clear rift not just within the PDM but also with the PML-N. The PPP was bitterly criticized for willingness to holding dialogue with the government and contesting the Senate polls but eventually, the PDM has acceded to their strategy.
It should be welcomed that PML-N has decided to fight the PTI in parliament rather than on the streets. This is the true essence of democracy that all issues should be solved in parliament. The party should realize that any move will give an opportunity to anti-democratic forces which could roll back the progress we have made so far to restore democracy in the country. The PDM should ensure that it does not take any decision which undermines the supremacy of the constitution. Therefore, its decision to contest the Senate elections and defer resignations should be welcomed for upholding the democratic traditions.
