Pakistan - Nawz's Call for Early Polls

MIAN Nawaz Sharif`s suggestion for an early election is going to be discussed seriously in the coming days. The advice to President Asif Zardari and Prime Minister Yousuf Raza Gilani is hardly undemocratic, and it is consistent with the PML-N`s own line of not allowing the army to step in. Meanwhile, the tone it has been delivered in sits well with Mr Sharif`s promotion of himself as an experienced national leader who could unite a fragmented Pakistan. He may have some more partisan motives, suchasthe onebasedonan estimate of the current PML-N popularity in comparison with the `discredited` PPP and an upwardly mobile Imran Khan. Yet, ultimately, it has to be said Mr Sharif has timed his suggestion expertly. His recent statements about democracy, civilian supremacy and on Balochistan, India, etc, have added to his credibility as a political leader.

The clever move is likely to win backers from among a people worn down by the current imbroglio, which is far from saying the call will not be opposed or will bewelcomed as an easy solution. The PPP will oppose an early election as amounting to the usurping of its right to rule until 2013.

The old victim`s status may be restored to the party of the Bhuttos whereas analysts will also be inclined to closely examine the system which is central to the materialisation of Mr Sharif`s wish. The fact is the Election Commission remains a contentious issue. Aspersions are routinely cast on its neutrality.

This has to be sorted out regardless of when polls are held. Additionally, there is the matter of the opposition`s `no` to an election held with Mr Zardari in the presidency. At least in theory the Gilani government`s stepping down would still leave the presidency in the hands of Mr Zardari. Mr Sharif`s earlypoll advice loses some of its shine when it is juxtaposed against Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif`s snappy rejection of any kind of vote under President Zardari. Credibility aside, the FML-N still needs to be a little more coherent and open when it comes to discussing its formula.