There is growing clamour over the no-confidence motion being introduced in yet another bid to oust the prime minister. The opposition claims it is on the verge of tabling the motion in parliament but visible cracks have emerged as its two main parties – PPP and PML-N – on the way forward.
The PDM, which has already been ruptured by the opposition’s divisions, has shelved the plan for its sit-in in Islamabad on March 23 to focus on the motion. JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman is as usual optimistic that they have required figures to bring a constitutional regime change. These hopes have been heightened over the impression that the government’s allies and disgruntled members will support them.
The opposition claims to have prepared a draft of the no-trust motion. The coming week is expected to be crucial whether it will be tabled. The situation is evolving rapidly and the prime minister has also reached out to allies over the opposition’s overtures. Before the motion succeeds and eventually ousts the government, there is a huge question on whether it will even be presented.
There is mistrust between the PPP and PML-N after the motion succeeds. The PML-N wants snap polls while the PPP wants the government to complete its term. Snap elections have been the major sticking point and who will be the interim prime minister before the next elections. This is a long way and the main concern should be whether the motion will actually send the government packing.
The PTI government faces the prospect of dissenting party members breaking rank to vote against them. This will be a costly move as it will lead to immediate disqualification. This may seem inconceivable but is a possibility that can jolt the ruling party. It also faces the risk from allied parties of parting ways and has been making efforts to woo them over.
The stage seems to be set for a political clash. All eyes are on the opposition when, and if, they will submit the motion. There is no precedent in Pakistani’s checkered history on removing an elected premier constitutionally. The prime minister also seems fazed and is confident the motion will fail. However, the situation remains tense and it needs to be seen whether we will witness another eventful day.
