THE PML-N has thrown the challenge of formulating a no-confidence motion in the Senate to the PPP. The PML-N is ‘asking’ the latter for support in getting rid of the Senate chairman through a no-confidence vote. It has said that in return, if the move proves successful, it will support the PPP in a similar vote in the Punjab Assembly where the latter party has just six seats. One is not sure of how genuine the offer is — or whether it is simply an exercise in sarcasm, underscoring yet again the mistrust and widening chasm between the two main opposition parties. If, however, the PPP were to take it at face value, an attempt might be made to revive the joint opposition. Going by recent tensions though this may not be the case. Both parties have drifted far apart since the days of a united PDM movement, when party scions shared a stage and delivered searing remarks against the government and its alleged selectors. With the PPP distancing itself from the PDM, the opposition coalition is today a ghost of its former self.

There are a number of common grievances the two harbour against the PTI rulers, including electoral reforms and the government’s political persecution of opponents. But both have other challenges too. The PPP leadership is guarding its own interests, hoping to get some breathing space in the dozens of cases instituted against its key people. It has also kept its criticism of the rulers measured to ensure there is room for political space in the future. The PML-N, meanwhile, is in the midst of a prolonged identity crisis, with Maryam Nawaz having taken a back seat since Shahbaz Sharif was released from custody. Though the two appear cordial, there are obvious, irreconcilable political differences between them which have diluted the message of the party. Far from the days when Ms Nawaz thundered at the government at mammoth rallies, the PML-N is now a much more muted and almost demure opposition party. In the absence of Nawaz Sharif, it appears his brother will prevail. But the latter’s presence isn’t putting much of a sting in the party’s challenge to the government.

With these problems, it is fairly certain that the PPP and PML-N will go their own ways. One is trying to survive and the other is on the wane. If this continues, the opposition will not be able to put up a robust front against any controversial move the government makes. From foreign policy to the economic situation, there are several issues the opposition could have jointly criticised in recent weeks. But it has failed to pack a punch and pull itself together as a formidable force. Both parties have a lot of work to do before they can come up with concrete proposals to challenge the seat of power. They will have to walk the talk.

Published in Dawn, August 24th, 2021