CIVIL WAR IN PAKISTAN

 

Yesterday, both the current and former prime ministers of Pakistan addressed their respective constituencies, revealing starkly contrasting approaches to tackle the challenges before them. One prime minister issued a strict 72-hour ultimatum, demanding the arrest of all those responsible for vandalizing the Lahore corps commander's residence. He emphasized making an example of the "terrorists" involved in the incident. On the other hand, the other prime minister called upon his supporters, especially women, to take to the streets today to strengthen his cause.

 

The upcoming days will be intriguing as we witness how these two leaders confront each other. Although it seems unlikely that they will engage in cordial discussions, there is a slim opportunity for constructive dialogue. Imran Khan has expressed his desire for an independent investigation into the violence that erupted following his arrest, aligning with the views of the other prime minister. Could this be an opening for both parties to come together, establish boundaries, assign responsibility, and find a way forward? As they say, politics is the art of the possible.

 

The federal cabinet is deeply displeased with court rulings favoring Mr. Khan and has condemned them as a "black stain" on the judiciary's integrity. The PDM coalition plans to stage a protest outside the apex court on Monday, potentially escalating into a confrontation. Maulana Fazlur Rahman has warned that if any harm befalls the protesters, they will respond with force. However, considering that Section 144 has been imposed in the capital, how does he plan to carry out the protest? Will the administration relax its restrictions to enable the demonstration to besiege the Supreme Court? The optics of such complicity will need to be reconciled amidst the existing tensions between the branches of the state.

 

If Pakistan had a Doomsday Clock, it would now read sixty seconds to midnight. For the first time in recent memory, the nation finds itself dangerously close to the brink of civil war. It is being torn apart by its own contradictions. Those who were once considered "darlings" have become "enemy number one," the so-called "democratic movement" now exhibits authoritarian tendencies, and the law has lost its consistency and objectivity. As our institutions continue to erode their already diminished credibility, the economy remains in shambles.

 

There is a genuine possibility that total chaos will ensue if someone doesn't intervene and press the reset button. Conducting free and fair elections, satisfying all parties involved, remains the best option in the current circumstances.