What the PTI has to learn is a very simple and basic truth. Coalitions cannot be held together without flexibility on the part of the bigger partner. Keeping coalition allies on board requires the understanding that politics in Pakistan has evolved over the years into patronage in the constituencies. If the PML-Q (and MQM) are ignored vis-à-vis their complaints that they are unable to keep their constituents satisfied because of a dearth of fulfillment of the promises made to them when they joined the coalition and an attitude on the part of the federal government that does not keep in view the exigencies of patronage politics in the constituencies, trouble is bound to follow. This is the 'normal' culture of coalitions in our country. It should not be taken for blackmail, since it appears to the disgruntled allies that there are promises the federal government must keep and maintain some sensitivity to their concerns. PM Imran Khan should not forget that the PTI has only a razor thin majority in the National Assembly. Unless his government smoothes the ruffled feathers of its coalition partners, it may well find itself hoist on its own petard.

Copyright Business Recorder, 2020