Daily Times

The world of political strategy and economic development isn’t too distant from the realm of game theory, a mathematical study of strategic interaction among rational decision-makers. Understanding Pakistan’s current political landscape requires an appreciation of these theoretical frameworks, primarily the zero-sum game and the dominant player game, before merging into Stefan Dercon’s paradigm on elite bargains.

At its core, the zero-sum game suggests that one player’s gain is equivalent to another’s loss. Historically, Pakistani politics has often operated on this model, especially in Nawaz Sharif’s previous tenures. His confrontations with the military, culminating in power struggles and eventual exiles, exemplified this zero-sum nature. The nation remained in a perpetual tug-of-war, with political ascendency often coming at the expense of another entity’s decline.

However, such zero-sum interactions have seldom been conducive to national progress. The oscillations of power, while serving individual or institutional interests, have generally left Pakistan’s broader developmental goals in limbo. This approach contrasts sharply with the dominant player game.

In a dominant player game, there’s an acknowledgment of a significant player whose strategies and decisions influence outcomes more heavily. Recognizing the dominant player isn’t about conceding defeat but understanding the landscape to strategize effectively. In Pakistan’s context, the military, particularly under the leadership of General Asim Munir as the Chief of Army Staff, holds this dominant position.

Pakistani politics has often operated on zero-sum model, especially in Nawaz Sharif’s previous tenures.

But here’s the twist: the dominant player game isn’t inherently about subjugation. It’s about cooperation. It suggests that when other players, recognizing the dominant entity’s influence, choose to cooperate rather than confront, the outcomes can be more beneficial for all. This perspective aligns well with Stefan Dercon’s insights.

Dercon’s research emphasizes the potential of elite bargains in promoting national development. Elite bargains aren’t mere power-sharing agreements among the upper echelons of society. They are structured understandings that, while recognizing the strengths and influences of key players, prioritize national development and stability. It’s a cooperative strategy, a departure from zero-sum confrontations, and a recognition of dominant entities, ensuring that while power dynamics may exist, the nation’s progress remains paramount.

Mian Nawaz Sharif, with his political acumen and history, alongside General Asim Munir, have a unique opportunity at this juncture. If they can shift the narrative from confrontational zero-sum games to cooperative dominant player strategies, embracing the essence of elite bargains, Pakistan could witness a transformative era of growth.

This growth isn’t just about GDP numbers or infrastructural projects. It’s about laying the foundation for a resilient, robust democracy, where institutions function optimally, and the nation’s diverse voices are heard and valued. It’s about ensuring that while elites may strike bargains, the benefits percolate to every Pakistani citizen.

The synthesis of game theory’s dominant player game and Dercon’s elite bargain framework offers a compelling roadmap for Pakistan. It suggests that recognizing dominant players, moving beyond zero- sum confrontations, and fostering elite cooperation can be the catalysts for Pakistan’s long-term development and stability.

In conclusion, the ball is in the court of Pakistan’s leaders, notably Nawaz Sharif and General Asim Munir. By harnessing the insights of game theory and the potential of elite bargains, they can steer Pakistan towards an era of unprecedented growth and prosperity. History will remember those who seize this moment, not just as astute political strategists but as visionary nation-builders.

The writer is a public policy graduate from the School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS), Johns Hopkins University and participates in electoral politics from Nankana Sahib, Punjab.