Asif Ali Zardari is often the subject of countless allegations, both true and false. However, whether his supporters or detractors, all can agree on one thing: he is a staunch advocate of reconciliation and compromise. He ended the decades-long hostility between the PPP and the establishment, which ushered in an era of stability and power for his party. However, this reconciliation alienated the anti-establishment vote in Punjab and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Another notable compromise was forged with the PML-N, leading to a two-party system that allowed both parties to complete their terms. Yet, this alliance came at a heavy cost for the PPP and Zardari, as it drove Punjabi voters and key electoral players into PTI’s fold, viewing the PPP-PML-N collaboration as a death knell for their own political prospects.

In the February 2024 elections, Bilawal Bhutto campaigned on an anti-Nawaz, anti-PML-N narrative. However, immediately after the elections, Zardari wasted no time in extending an olive branch to PML-N under the establishment’s patronage. As President, he consistently supported the PML-N-led government on key matters, including the 26th Amendment and other challenges. Yet, in return, he has been met with indifference from the federal government and hostility from Punjab’s leadership.

While the President of Pakistan is a symbolic figurehead, the constitution mandates that the Prime Minister keeps the President informed about cabinet proceedings, legislative matters, and administrative affairs. Unfortunately, this constitutional duty has been disregarded. Politically, Zardari’s input is also ignored, leaving him sidelined. The “King of Reconciliation” now appears as powerless as a king of hearts in a deck of cards. He is burdened by unfulfilled promises to his party, pressures from his temperamental son Bilawal Bhutto, and a government that neglects even its basic obligations toward him.

In Punjab, Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz neither welcomed him during his visit nor met him, flouting both protocol and tradition. The written agreement between PPP and the PML-N in Punjab remains unimplemented, with promises unfulfilled and no resolution in sight.

Despite his visible helplessness, the PPP neither plans to sever ties with the PML-N nor contemplates an alliance with the PTI. However, it seems Zardari’s overtures of reconciliation are being met with deliberate sidelining. The PML-N appears to have decided against fostering a future alliance with the PPP.

The contrast is stark: while the government bends over backwards to appease Maulana Fazlur Rehman, who neither supports them in crises nor contributes significantly, it displays no gratitude towards the PPP for its proactive cooperation. Within the PPP, insiders note that while PM Shehbaz Sharif is somewhat respectful, Nawaz Sharif avoids Zardari altogether, refusing meetings or consultations. Maryam Nawaz mirrors her father’s dismissive approach, despite Zardari’s earnest attempts to address grievances in a recent Islamabad meeting.

Shehbaz Sharif’s government, aided by the establishment, has achieved some economic successes, but politically, it remains fragile. There is no narrative, no public engagement, and no means of consultation. The government’s alliance with the establishment hinges on the threat posed by the PTI. Should this threat diminish or a reconciliation emerge, new pathways will open for the establishment.

If the current dismissive attitude towards the PPP persists, the anticipated national government set to form in the fourth year of this term may take shape much sooner. History teaches us that governments were allies feel sidelined or disrespected seldom endure.

While the establishment remains the government’s staunchest supporter, the federal government must reciprocate by fostering public support. The PPP, as a key ally, deserves recognition and respect. Failing this, the government risks losing its footing, as no political strategy can thrive on indifference and neglect.

Releasing President Zardari from his shackles would strengthen the government and foster stability. If his hands remain tied, the government may find itself politically paralysed.

Note: This opinion piece is a translation of Suhail Warraich’s Urdu column published in Daily Jang.