Former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s comments that the nation could break up if the establishment doesn’t take the “right decision” will certainly not go well with state institutions, political parties and even ordinary citizens.
The PTI chairman said the current political situation was a problem for the country as well as the establishment. He said that if the country goes bankrupt, the army will be the worst affected and the nation will lose it nuclear deterrence, leading to its break up into three parts.
As expected, the comments have ignited a flurry of criticism. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif warned him for “crossing the limit” and threatening the country. He said Imran was spreading chaos due to being frustrated after his ouster and his comments were like Pakistani’s enemies. While Zardari said Imran’s language was similar to Modi’s as no one dares to speak about splitting Pakistan.
Although Imran Khan may have made the comments about the political situation, they would not be easily comprehended by the masses. The PTI should not make any attempt that could dent its public image and ostracize the party. It should realize that such comments and a confrontation with the state institutions will not have any benefit if the party wants to return to power.
Imran Khan has been more vocal ever since being ousted. He has admitted that he did not have absolute power as prime minister, indicating the actual power centres lay elsewhere. This is not surprising as it is known that he had a confrontation with state institutions, leading to his eventual ouster. But Imran Khan should realize that confronting them will worsen the relationship even further.
Imran Khan said his government was weak when it came to power and had to seek coalition partners who blackmailed and eventually deserted him. It is, however, unlikely that any party can form a majority government given the multi-party system. Any party, even the PTI, will have a hung parliament if it comes to power and will have to seek coalition partners.
Imran Khan has been stressing about holding early elections. It should retrospect whether it is in a position to return to power. This seems unlikely if it is on a direct collision course with the state institutions. What is the ‘right decision’ that Imran is calling for? It is just to bring him back to power.
