In a television program on Sunday during which he fielded questions from the general public, Pakistan Prime Minister Imran Khan said he would be "more dangerous" if forced out of power. Though the statement was targeted at his political opponents, including calling the Leader of the Opposition Shehbaz Sharif “nation's criminal’, his words are open to interpretation, especially when the rumors are rife about simmering differences between his government and the military.

Importantly, the admission came at a time when the People’s Democratic Movement (PDM), a coalition of opposition parties, is all set to hit the streets for ‘Mahgai March’ (anti-inflation march). PM Khan's wide-ranging responses were part of a program called "Aap Ka Wazir-e-Azam, Aap Kay Saath", during which he said that inflation was the only problem that kept him awake at night. 

The government seems confused about its approach to the opposition. Earlier this month, Information Minister Fawad Chaudhary said, “At the beginning of the new year 2022, I think we need to reduce bitterness. The government and the opposition should talk on elections, economy, political and judicial reforms.” He indicated the need of reducing rhetoric. [Read More]

On Sunday Khan said, “The office of the opposition leader has respect, but I do not consider him (Shehbaz Sharif) an opposition leader, rather he is someone who has committed serious crimes against the country.” He went on to say he was willing to talk to the TLP,  a hardline religious party responsible for recent violent protests,  and disgruntled Baloch but will never sit down with Shahbaaz Sharif. 

Coming to power in 2018 banking on his strong anti-corruption plank, Prime Minister Khan has continued targeting, demonizing, and demeaning his mainstream political opponents, citing his "zero tolerance" policy towards corruption. However, it led to the breakdown of basic functional relations between the government and the opposition required for national consensus building on key issues.

However, over the past few months, the rift between the military and the government is apparent, especially after the public disagreement during the appointment of the chief intelligence agency, ISI. Once proudly claiming that both the government and the military are on the “same page”, the government hasn’t now stopped using the phrase for some months now.   

Furthermore, there is speculation about the possible return of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan. Some reports suggested Sharif was holding secret talks with the military. On Sunday, Khan, however, insisted "he (Sharif) will not come back. He loves money," even though rumours of his "deals" with the military keep circulating.

Asad Umer, the federal minister in Khan’s cabinet, last week publicly said that the decision to send Sharif to Landon for treatment was taken by Prime Minister Khan himself. 

Prevailing economic distress, emboldened religious parties like TLP and JuI that enjoy considerable street strength, and deteriorating terms with the military would further likely complicate the government’s ability to function smoothly. 

(SAM)