FROM A RINGSIDE SEAT

The political restructuring set in motion by the President Pervez Musharraf some weeks back completed full circle on Wednesday evening when 189 members of the National Assembly gave Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain their vote of confidence as the 21st prime minister of Pakistan.
Shujaat had seven days at his disposal to secure this vote, but given the supersonic speed, with which things political are moving in Pakistan, he got it within hours of his swearing in. Why such a hurry...Even the presidential order summoning the session did not mention that the house would take up vote of confidence for the new prime minister, asked the PPP member and ex-deputy speaker Syed Zafar Ali Shah.
It took the house about an hour to complete voting for the new premier, as the members who did not want to support the resolution seeking vote of confidence for Shujaat Hussain stayed back. As the voters started moving towards the lobby to the right of the speaker a low-key hum engulfed the house. Knotted in small groups, the members on both sides of aisle engaged in intense gossip, but from the seat in the press gallery it was hard to comprehend as to what interested the members now. Off and on one could hear Speaker Amir Hussain urging those "who want to exercise their right of vote" to hurry up. But, the members took their time.
In this atmosphere of low-tension and 'free mixing' one would instantly notice any unusual happening. One, was the lonely Humayun Akhtar wandering through the benches temporarily emptied by treasury benches. The other scene that attracted attention was the growing number of members buzzing around Shaukat Aziz. And, an equally interesting scene was presented by Ex-premier Zafarullah Khan Jamali, who all the time closeted himself with the new Prime Minister. Occupying a seat in the front row, which is reserved for the ministers, Jamali was appeared acting as Shujaat's principal advisor.
To live and let live is my philosophy...I have always rejected the culture of taking revenge", said Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain in his vote-of-thanks speech. It was brief, simple-worded speech but had the ring of sincerity. "I want to say from this floor that I will not only continue but also vigorously implement the policies initiated by President General Pervez Musharraf for eradication of lawlessness and terrorism; economic stability, political security and enlightened moderation". He promised to legislate, on priority basis, against lies and false accusations.
There was no desk thumping as Prime Minister Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain spoke but there was no interference also. Because of his personal rapport with a very large number of members, including those from the opposition, they showed due regard to the Chaudhry, and this is not expected to change in the next two months as he holds the office of Prime Minister. There is very likelihood that in the next two months the country experiences a downtrend in political tensions.
By far the opposition seems to be satisfied with the latest developments. It tends to draw strength from the sacking of Jamali, appointment of a stopgap prime minister, and the rulers' inability to effect reshuffle of the federal cabinet. Despite his best intentions how effective would be Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain in carrying forward the Musharraf's agenda is anybody's guess. Another relevant question is: If a friendless person like Zafarullah Khan Jamali can become a "hurdle" in the smooth running of administration what about Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain, who is the most powerful politician with the largest political backing in the country?
Between now and the time when Shauket Aziz is expected to take over many things can happen. Someone has to resign from the National Assembly to vacate a seat for the context in which Shauket Aziz will stand. That election has to be won otherwise he won't be the next Prime Minister. And, in the meanwhile a person of the calibre and political standing of Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain would be the Prime Minister. To think that changeover would be that simple as is being held out is to close one's eyes on the phenomenon called 'dynamics of power'. Then there is this fast speed with which things are happening here and globally. Less than a week ago, the incumbent Prime Minister was saying what resignation are you talking about. Today the new Prime Minister addressed the parliament. Fear the time!