The political temperatures are rising across the country as the opposition is set to file a no-confidence motion to oust the PM. The focus has once again shifted to Islamabad to see if the prime minister will survive the political challenge and remain in control.
The PTI suffered a blow as disgruntled leader Aleem Khan appeared from the wilderness to join Jehangir Tareen allied group, consisting of loyalists who expressed support for him. This implies that a forward bloc has been effectively formed in Punjab, which could impact the provincial government and possibly even the prime minister if the no-trust motion is brought forward.
The main focus would now be on placating the bloc and the prime minister has tasked close confidante Governor Sindh to soothe matters. It needs to be seen if the group will break ranks and move against the prime minister, even if it risks disqualification and banishment from the party.
Speculations have also been rife that Aleem Khan is eyeing the coveted chief minister slot. The question remains if the newly-formed forward bloc has the support to bring down Buzdar and claim the spot. This would certainly not be possible without the support of the opposition. The PML-N is in no mood to hand over the post to stalwart PML-Q leader Pervaiz Elahi and its needs to be seen if they would express support for Aleem Khan.
It also needs to be seen if Imran Khan is willing to sacrifice his loyalist Usman Buzdar to salvage himself. Ever since Buzdar emerged as the surprising choice to lead the largest province, there has been intense speculation on how long he would survive. Buzdar enjoyed the support of the prime minister and remained in power but now faces the prospect of being made a political scapegoat.
The prime minister has struggled to juggle between placating allies and disgruntled leaders, many of whom were facing corruption charges. They played a role in the party’s rising but were eventually sidelined; now they pose a real threat to the very government they played a key role in establishing. In case, the prime minister weathers this political storm and goes on to complete his term, it will be a huge victory for him. It could be the death knell for the dissenting party workers who decried being sidelined but have blackmailed the government. The coming weeks could prove crucial for Imran Khan’s government.
