Crossing the Rubicon

ON Thursday Mian Nawaz Sharif again clarified that there is no change in his party’s view on the judges’ issue and the only way to save the coalition is to implement the Murree Accord. There were also reports that the PPP meeting in Dubai chaired by Mr Zardari had decided to expand the federal cabinet in the days to come. There are suggestions that in case of failure of talks between the PPP and the PML(N), the MQM might be included in the Cabinet, and the JUI and ANP given more seats. This would amount on the part of the PPP to crossing the Rubicon. Any parting of ways between the PPP and PM(N) would have far-reaching effects of a negative kind on national politics. Among other developments, it might also destabilize Punjab. The establishment would be the only gainer from any possible break-up between the two mainstream parties. There is therefore a need for an urgent meeting between the two leaders. This should be held in Pakistan in view of the resentment being expressed at the absence of the two major coalition leaders from the country, particularly the PPP’s Mr Asif Zardari, who holds the key to the resolution of the two crucial issues facing the country, the restoration of the judiciary and the future of the President. Further the meeting should be properly structured, with a well-prepared agenda and carefully chosen leaders from both sides.