THERE has always been an inclination among different factions of the PMLto take pride in the fact that there is some common bond that unites them. Recent developments in politics forecast a departure from this frame of mind. With the PPP-PML(N) tussle forming the backdrop, the possibility of the PML(Q) joining either of the two parties does not seem far from happening. Considering the developments taking place for quite some time and most importantly the statement made by the PML(Q) leader Moonis Elahi on Wednesday that it could form an alliance with any of the two parties, it appears that the country's political landscape is going to experience some significant change. The question is how this transformation would affect the PML(Q). It is not just the party's future that is at stake, it is going to have serious implications for the country's body politic as well. The fact that both PML(N) and PML(Q) are based in Punjab and that some PML(Q) members were earlier part of the PML(N), a merger of the two cannot be ruled out. Yet there are pitfalls that might inhibit the PML(Q) from doing so, the biggest being that in the process the PML(Q) might lose its identity and would go down in history as a cluster of opportunists cobbled together by the military. Secondly there is also a chance that serious differences might appear in matters of power sharing, as the PML(Q) might like to have its own chief minister. Those who are in favour of reaching an understanding with the PPP argue that the party might not fare so bad if it were to opt for such an alliance. Differences over hammering out a power-sharing formula might occur but the PML(Q) might be able to retain its identity. The party nonetheless has made it clear that regardless of the trajectory it might take it would continue to play its part in the country's politics. Going by what the party leadership has been saying about their commitment to play an effective role in nation building even while in opposition, their intention ought to be welcomed. The PML(N) also ought to reciprocate to Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi's sentiment that his party's doors were open for reconciliation.