Ending deadlock over delay in election Pakistan is all set to go for national polls on February 08th with fate of many high profile contenders hanging in balance from Nawaz Sharif, Bilawal Bhutto and Imran Khan. A country grappling with social, economic and political uncertainty marring it’s prospects it is still trying to strike off against a situation which has only made it virulent, violent and intolerant inching it closer towards religious chauvinism, bigotry and extremism taking a toll on the ordinary and common masses. However, with the army establishment keeping a close watch its impossible for anyone to escape it’s heat as all the participants are thoroughly acquainted with this fact.
Though, Imran Khan’s PTI (Tehreek E Insaaf) is largely popular amongst the electorate but with Imran,s charisma fainting after his conviction and prison term in several of economic offences. Secondly, with most of PTI candidates fighting independently rather than rallying behind party,s symbol as he has lost the traction and connect which he otherwise had after taking oath in July 2018 with the army apparatus and establishment endorsing and backing the candidature of cricketer turned politician.
But, in politics there is never a free lunch Imran had to pay a big price for his off the cuff remarks and comments casting the Pakistan military in a poor taste beginning the start of his political rout and decline from the scene as it had implications for him. From here on reviving and resurrecting himself remains a herculean task despite his party being well ahead than Nawaz Sharif,s PML(N) and Bilawal Bhutto,s PPP. Finding itself in a fix and dilemma the army will tread cautiously before arriving at any inference or conclusion for all practical purpose a leader who is dynamic, energetic and enterprising will be an asset for this coup and crisis torn nation.
Bilawal promises a new dawn for Pakistan whereas Nawaz an old experienced hand will ensure march towards stability and prosperity rather than staying dependent on Saudi Arabia and China two of Pakistan,s most formidable allies. Reducing debts, bringing foreign investments and cash flows are crucial from Pakistan,s perspective the army should not have second thoughts reining in Nawaz Sharif who apart from being pro India can arguably set the house in order with the rest lacking that persona and persuasive ness.
Contesting his fourth election, Nawaz who has just returned from exile has never been able to complete his full term still he possesses the urge to see a Pakistan booming in all spheres and avenues bringing a respite for the awaam who otherwise had to pay a price for a jamhooriyat loosing scheme of the purpose. Ball is in the court of army chief Asim Munir involving himself in the knitty gritties of post poll scenario with Nawaz,s party topping the chart as independents will have no hesitation in going by the direction of wind as everyone stares at their slice of pie unapologetically. Game on from here!