EDITORIAL

Govt-opposition talks should continue

The fifth and final round of talks on LFO between PML-Q and MMA on Saturday ended on a positive note as a set of recommendations were finalised for consideration of the party heads. This is a major breakthrough but cannot be seen without some caution as in the past, too, there have been instances when both sides claimed to have reached some accord, which proved a wishful thinking in the ultimate analysis. During the dialogue process there have been ups and downs, but the mere continuation of the process is interpreted by many analysts as vindication of the fact that there is some meeting point between the two sides. The ARD has remained on the sideline for being too rigid in its stand with regard to LFO, but could never afford to be heedless of political negotiations, as it will affect directly the Opposition with regard to some contentious issues.
Former Prime Ministers Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto, who have high stakes and want to revert to the supremacy of Parliament without any compromises, can only look at the present state with anxiety and suspicion. Though the details of the talks between the two parties are yet to be unfolded, which would be meaningful after ratification in the party heads meeting, it appears that the stand-off between PML-Q and MMA is heading towards some rapprochement. The contentious issues like 58(2)b, President's uniform and electoral college are the issues that will continue to reverberate and haunt political stability in the country. The situation is too ambiguous and it remains to be seen whether the party heads approve the set of recommendations finalised by their teams.
The MMA has been accused of "changing the post" too often by the ruling party. While the MMA feels that some "hidden hand" scuttles the process every time the politicians are near reaching accord. These are the allegations and counter allegations in which the politicians have managed to continue negotiations. This shows that the willingness to save the system and, therefore, being partners in power exists. The President again expressed his desire and determination the other day to continue with the system and assured that the assemblies would fulfil their term.
The delicate balance of the whole system needs to be understood by both the parties, as its rollback would push Pakistan to political chaos and anarchy. In spite of the urgent need for reaching any consensus, the expediencies should not be allowed to overlook the vital significance of 1973 Constitution. Being a consensus document, it is the need of the Federation. Any trampling with it would be tantamount to putting the Federation in danger. The sanctity of the Constitution is supreme and, as such, should be protected by politicians. Politicians have the duty not only to protect the sanctity of the Constitution, but also to ensure that the process is carried out constitutionally. It remains to be seen whether the transitional period of transferring the power from the military to civilian administration is completed successfully which is possible after the assemblies start functioning smoothly. The politicians should be ready to give concessions to save the system without compromising on the fundamentals of the Constitution. Beyond that, it is the duty of the government side to show flexibility. It means that despite all difficulties, the Constitution remains the meeting point for all.