In accord with the prevailing circumstances, after calling off its 126-day long sit-in seeking redress for alleged electoral rigging complaints, the PTI has decided to shift its focus from disruptive protest politics to a constructive endeavour. Addressing his party's "Dharna Convention", Imran Khan announced his decision not to create any difficulties for the government so that it could succeed in the war on terror. Said he, "now all our energies will be focused on improving governance in KPK. We will prove to our detractors that governance in KPK is better than other provinces." The change he had been promising the people is to be seen in the province where his party is in power. The provincial government is to undertake reform of education, healthcare and police systems, while one billion trees will be planted across the province. Equally important, he said, the provincial government is ready to hold local government polls, adding "real change will come through LG system" leading to devolution of power at the village level. Progress in all these areas will not only improve the quality of life for the people in KPK, but would also serve as a challenge for the other provinces to deliver good governance; and, of course, enhance PTI's own chances of success in the next general elections.
That though does not mean the PTI has given up its demand for a probe into the last general elections. Imran reiterated his threat to shut down the entire country if the demand is not met. The issue will continue to rankle the Prime Minister. The government-PTI talks to resolve the rigging allegations remain deadlocked on a proposed judicial commission's terms of reference. The key sticking point has been the PTI's insistence that the Prime Minister should resign even if 'systematic rigging' is not proved - something unacceptable to the PM's men. Sunday's shift in stand, presumably, means the party will give up that condition, focusing instead on a general investigation to ensure no electoral manipulation takes place in future, and move on to play its role as a strong opposition in Parliament. Those who voted for PTI candidates expect their representatives to take up issues of concern to them. And the party can better serve its own cause inside the Parliament by participating in the deliberations of its electoral reform committee.
There is a consensus of opinion among all parliamentary parties on reforming the electoral system so that the next elections are held in a transparent and impartial manner. The PTI may have specific recommendations to make to empower the Election Commission of Pakistan as a truly independent and effectual body. Towards that end, it would be worthwhile to benefit from the experience of Indian election commission where the chief election commissioner, aside from devising appropriate rules and guidelines, has the authority to transfer administration officials from one district or a state to another to ensure they do not use their positions to favour ruling party candidates. Considering that nepotism is known to have significant impact on electoral outcomes in this country, the Chief Election Commissioner of Pakistan too should have the prerogative to transfer administration officials. India is also one of the first countries to introduce electronic balloting despite its vast populations - like in this country - of illiterate rural people to eliminate bogus voting. PTI, an ardent advocate of electronic balloting, can use the example to confront objectors. Hopefully, the ongoing discussions over judicial commission will soon lead to an agreement, and the party will go back to the assemblies.