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The PTI government versus PDM: Editorial in Pakistan Today, N0v 13, 2020


Will the alliance remain united? The attempts by the government to break up the opposition alliance have failed so far.

The PDM comprises 11 parties. Two of these are moderate mainstream parties who happen to be traditional rivals. Unlike them, the JUI(F) draws support from religious seminaries as does JAH, another alliance component. Nationalist parties are secular outfits drawing support from their respective ethnic groups. Some of the alliance components have at times aligned themselves with the PPP or PML(N) or both. There are enough differences between the allied parties but unlike PTI leadership these are led by hardheaded politicians. The alliance which has already held three mega rallies remains united and is now bracing for a fourth one in Peshawar to beard the lion in his den.

The PML(N), PDM’s main source of strength in Punjab remains united, defying several timelines for a split announced by PTI leaders. Despite facing hardships both the soft liners and the hard liners remain united over Nawaz Sharif’s combative narrative.

The PTI government has also tried to cause estrangement between the PPP and PML(N) by allegedly engaging elements in the ISI and Rangers, who are technically under PM’s control. The attempt boomeranged and caused embarrassment to the military, which was unnecessarily dragged into an ugly political standoff.

Attempts were made to use Bilawal’s “It saddens me to see Generals names being taken at rallies” to incite the PML(N) against PPP. The PML(N) leaders however did not take the bait. Bilawal backtracked by maintaining that the PDM had not barred the allies from taking names during rallies.

The PPP and PML(N) have displayed more maturity than many had expected during the ongoing Gilgit-Baltistan elections. Despite the stiff electoral rivalry, the leadership of the two parties maintained amicable relations.

JUI(F) Secretary Information Hafiz Hussain Ahmad had lashed out at Nawaz Sharif on a TV show for the latter’s anti-establishment stance. This was considered to be a divisive move and his party promptly removed him from the office.

The PDM has yet to go through several endurance tests, the most challenging being resignations from the assemblies. Unless it qualifies in all these, it would be premature to pass judgment over the alliance’s mettle. https://www.pakistantoday.com.pk/2020/11/12/the-pti-government-versus-pdm/