WITHIN what is a very narrow space these days, there seems to be some effort to renegotiate the PTI’s relationship with the state. A message was recently sent from Attock jail: Imran Khan is ready to talk, but only on elections. But who does Mr Khan think still wants to talk to him? The statement could have been a signal to other political parties, or it could have been a tentative ‘yes’ to someone making efforts to tape together the PTI and establishment’s long-torn ‘same page’. With the PTI, it is always difficult to tell. While a new political configuration seems like a tall order at this point in time, the latter possibility appears more likely. The party’s leaders have made no secret of their yearning for a soft corner in the hardened hearts of their once benefactors. They know, as well as anyone, that their predicament is unlikely to change till the PTI is ready to share its political capital with unelected quarters again.

The question, therefore, is: is there even a remote chance of a rapprochement in the current circumstances? The unyielding will of Mr Khan — a man notoriously difficult to reason with once he makes up his mind — has repeatedly come in the way of past efforts. The PTI chief, who seems to be in good health and spirits and in no mood to leave the country, according to his lawyers, also remains a thorn in the side of the establishment despite being confined to jail. Notwithstanding the brutal crackdown on his party post-May 9, the narrative crafted by the former prime minister continues to endure. With the state beginning to feel the enormity of public discontent as the cost of living soars to unbearable levels, it will soon realise, if it hasn’t already, that the current situation is untenable and brute force alone cannot solve the country’s problems. The problem is neither side has been willing to cede an inch. Clearly, Mr Khan needs to engage on more than just elections, especially if he hopes to take the country forward under his leadership. The other side must realise that it cannot continue to weaken the social fabric with heavy-handed interventions if it wishes to see Pakistan stronger. Both need to realise that the fortunes of more than 240m souls are at stake.

Published in Dawn, September 5th, 2023