EDITORIAL: The federal government’s decision to open a dialogue with the opposition rather than resort to extraordinary measures was a very welcome step. With the PTI preparing for its October 4 march and tensions already running high, Pakistan can ill afford another confrontation between rival political forces. Dialogue may not resolve every disagreement, but it offers a better prospect than escalation.
Developments immediately prior to the meetings underlined just how narrow the space for compromise had become. Following a multi-party opposition meeting, senior opposition leaders adopted a firm position on the proposed protest and on reports that the federal government was considering governor’s rule or emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP).
National Assembly Opposition Leader Mahmood Khan Achakzai rejected the prospect of meeting the prime minister at the PM Office or PM House, while Senate Opposition Leader Raja Nasir Abbas said the opposition was prepared for dialogue but would not accept talks conducted under pressure.
At the same time, the PTI appeared to have prepared itself for the extreme consequences, repeatedly threatened by federal ministers and government spokesmen. PTI Chairman Barrister Gohar Ali Khan warned against imposing emergency or governor’s rule in KP, while reiterating that the party remained willing to negotiate.
This was precisely the moment when political wisdom was required. The government had been publicly discussing extraordinary constitutional measures, citing the security situation in KP, while the PTI remained determined to proceed with its protest.
Yet neither side had completely closed the door on negotiations and subsequent developments eventually produced an important opening: an agreement for government and opposition representatives to meet. But alas two days of negotiations have not borne result.
The breakdown of talks notwithstanding; disagreement does not have to become confrontation. The real test of political leadership is the ability to manage differences without allowing them to threaten peace, stability or democratic institutions.
Difficult political disputes are rarely resolved when one side insists on getting everything it wants. Negotiation necessarily involves adjustment, accommodation and compromise. These are essential elements of democratic politics, not signs of weakness.
There is also a potentially important step the government could take to reduce the immediate temperature. Implementing the Supreme Court’s directions concerning the PTI founder’s medical treatment and access to his family could help remove one of the most contentious issues surrounding his incarceration.
The court had directed that he be shifted to Shifa International Hospital for examination and treatment, while the issue of regular meetings with his family has also figured prominently in the dispute. Whatever legal objections the government may have raised to the hospital-transfer order, adherence to judicial directions is important.
Facilitating the medical treatment and family access sought by the PTI could remove a major source of tension and create greater space for political dialogue. Both sides — especially the government - need to avoid confrontation, making it easier for all involved to step back from the brink without losing face.
The hope is that the breakdown in talks will not lead to another confrontation. Pakistan has seen enough political brinkmanship. Politicians do know that difficult issues are often resolved through give and take; what is required now is the willingness to practise what politics at its best demands.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026