Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) Co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari has returned on December 23 from Dubai after 18 months of separation from his homeland, amid much fanfare in Karachi. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has said that he was glad that the PPP Co-chairman was returning to Pakistan, he also hoped that the former president would keep “his party’s” control in his hands. Former president Asif Ali Zardari has made a considerable impact on the politics of Pakistan as well as the PPP by sticking to the policy of reconciliation and promotion of democracy. Asif Ali Zardari is associated in the public mind with many things for his quite demeanor and witty political moves. His sudden departure from the country in June last year had stunned his supporters and rivals alike. Before leaving the country, he had made a fiery speech against the military establishment. During his speech, he had warned the military to stay away from politics and not interfere in matters beyond its domain. He went on to say army chiefs come and go every three years, but the political leadership is here to stay. Further, he warned the military not to push him to the point where he feels compelled to expose the list of Generals accused of wrongdoing since the creation of Pakistan. Zardari also gave tough time to the PML-N leadership. After the 2013 elections when the PML-N came into power, the PPP continued to play its role as the main opposition party. In the wake of historic sit-in and protests by the PTI, the PPP supported democracy and did not allow anyone to topple the government. To go so far as to threaten the military directly and the PML-N government indirectly, Zardari remained a follower of democratic norms. Through his personal traits, he reminded everyone of the patience exhibited by him after his wife’s assassination when he helped quell the violent agitation and protest against her murder with the slogan: Pakistan khappay (Pakistan will live). Irrespective of allegations of corruption and cronyism, Zardari continued to patronise democratic institutions in the country. One of his major contributions to the state is his role in safeguarding the unity of federating units. His reconciliation policy played wonders in converting his rivals into his admirers. The enactment of 7th NFC Award after consensus among provinces as well as relinquishing his presidential powers back to Parliament are his noteworthy achievements. But the present political scenario is quite different now. After his arrival in Pakistan, Zardari will have to face daunting challenges of re-establishing the PPP as a mainstream political party at the national level. After the downfall of the MQM, new political parties have emerged. Besides, the PML-N and PTI are struggling to gain their share in Sindh. While the PPP is being spearheaded by young Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, who is actively taking part in politics. Though Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has welcomed the return of Zardari, yet he is unaware what lies ahead. Will Zardari find a middle ground with the PML-N or support the agitation movement announced by his son after December 27. This is a million dollar question with no answers yet. *