Daily Times

There’s nothing like a good competition to push you even further. Well, not according to leading mouthpieces for PML(N) Atta Tarar. Addressing a worker convention in Lahore, he assailed PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari for contesting the upcoming general elections from NA-127. Shouting from the housetops, he declared Lahore the “fortress” of his leader Nawaz Sharif. To begin with, someone with no influence whatsoever in the approval of nomination papers does not have any authority to question any citizen of Pakistan over his decision to participate in the electoral process. Then again, if “developments” in home constituencies are what settle upon the next moves on the political chessboard, what tour de force encouraged Shehbaz Speed to head towards Karachi? Have the Sharif elders forgotten the chaotic days of their interim administration that pulled the drapes off all claims of brilliance and excellent governance?

There’s no denying the Sharif citadel and his sway over the hearts of millions but PPP’s sweeping popularity, which, at one point, became a bigger stronghold for Zulfikar Ali Bhutto than his hometown is just as undeniable of a reality.

If the writing on the wall screams political rebirths, former foreign ministers deserve a similar chance to reinvent their party on the national front. Because constituency politics are a tough business indeed, these fiery players would be better off playing to their strengths and humouring their respective votebanks.

Once celebrated as the GT Road Party, PML(N) does not need to be reminded how voters do not bat an eyelid before favouring another strong alternative. Both the 2018 general elections and by-polls saw big names in Central Punjab lose heavily to seemingly second-tier leaders from the PTI. Better consolidate your own backyard before demanding answers from others. As for Mr Bhutto-Zardari, his unrestrained political campaigning might have worked in his favour in the western half of the country but the masses stand confused between the two torchbearers. Every fast spin by the celebrated scion has been effectively countered by his extremely shrewd father and co-chairperson, Asif Ali Zardari. May it be the clarion call for young blood in politics or the clamour for a level playing field, all bouncers have received a massive six. Noble intentions aside, the little prince has yet to rise above the palace intrigues to score credibility in the eyes of his voters. Both political parties may be ready to reclaim their thrones but none of their efforts can pay off if fair and fair elections are not ensured. *