THE narrative being promoted by the current opposition is spreading hatred and anger among the public against its own institutions. But the demand for immediate elections is confusing and illogical because it comes with another demand; the resignation of the chief election commiss-ioner. Who will hold the elections, especially when there is the likelihood that the results of the general elections might not be acceptable to those who are demanding the immediate holding of the polls?

If the opposition wins, the current stance will create hurdles in dealing with global institutions and maintaining cordial relations with major powers. Rhetoric apart, how will Pakistan form a strategy to wriggle out of its current crisis entirely on its own? The country needs political stability and consensus on national and international issues.

Only time will tell what the future has in store for Pakistan, but it is obvious that tougher and difficult days are ahead.

Ali Raza Shah Gillani
Islamabad

Published in Dawn, May 25th, 2022