By Sardar Khan Niazi
Our country is passing through one of the worst political and economic crises of its history. The heightened political temperature has not only developed deep political polarization but also an environment of hatred among rival political forces.
The alarming situation demands reconciliation for political stability in the country in the greater national and public interest as politics and economy cannot be divorced from each other; both have a deep correlation. Political stability with consistent policies is necessary for economic growth.
SBP and other financial institutions’ reports suggest an economy going over the brink. Deposits with the banks have fallen. The dollar value is constantly rising, pushing up the prices of everything. LCs abroad are not having acceptance. The existing account situation is not encouraging either, and the economy is projected to grow by only two percent.
Under the current scenario, President Arif Alvi and Finance Minister Ishaq Dar’s recent meeting to figure out a way to break the political deadlock between the PDM and PTI is a welcome step.
Both also met last month. That meeting proved fruitful. The success of that earlier interaction has now given the two enough confidence to start talking about the other major issues on the table, and it is encouraging to note that both see a chance for its success.
Mr. Dar, who was acting as Nawaz Sharif’s personal representative, deliberated with him the various options on the table for both sides and promised to get back to him on certain suggestions after consultations with his party leaders. The possibility of early elections also came under discussion.
Tolerance and listening to each other’s point of view are foremost essentials for the resolution of conflicts. The absence of a channel of communication retards political development. In this respect, the greatest onus lies with the sitting government to take steps to pave the way for a dialogue.
The government should avoid oppressive actions against the opposition as it can hamper a cordial political atmosphere. Under the present circumstances, revengeful actions by the government level to make an example of certain rival personalities do not augur well. It should avoid lodging several FIRs at different places against the same person on the same charges.
Protection of fundamental rights is among the basic duties of the state and due process of law is a medium, which protects these rights. If any leader of the opposition overreacts, the government is supposed to handle the situation with maturity and restraint.
The government in order to develop a better image of itself must not indulge in actions that contravene this very notion. Avoiding strong-arm tactics will bring down the political temperature, and pave the way for eloquent resolution of issues of national importance.
Politics and the economy cannot be divorced from each other; both have a deep connection. Economic growth is not attainable without stabilizing the political environment first.
The economy is thus providing the grounds for the negotiation. The government and the opposition should negotiate a course to guide the economy out of its present crises. Thus, we can hope for smooth sailing in the next election.
They must not put at risk the well-being of the country’s citizens. It is time for both sides to show elasticity. The government and the opposition must come to a reciprocally satisfactory agreement over the route to the next elections and formulate new rules for political engagement in the future.
How long a struggle will continue between classes ruling the country, with personal interests to reinforce and protect their term of office and those striving to change the system they think is serving the interests of only the ruling classes rather than the common people?
