IN an encouraging development, the government has signalled openness to PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari’s offer to mediate between the ruling coalition and the PTI to facilitate the latter’s participation in another session of the Parliamentary Committee on National Security. The PTI was notably absent from the previous meeting — held amid a surge in terrorist violence, including the hijacking of the Jaffar Express in Balochistan — citing the incarceration of its party founder as justification. That meeting, also attended by the military leadership, was meant to forge political unity on the urgent matter of countering militancy. Its effectiveness, however, was blunted by the absence of the country’s largest opposition party. Mr Bhutto-Zardari’s attempt to rise above partisan interests and invite all political forces to the table is appreciable. His call for setting aside differences in the national interest recognises the seriousness of the situation: Pakistan is once again facing coordinated attacks on civilians and law enforcement, especially in KP and Balochistan. He rightly noted that consensus-building has become increasingly difficult — but remains essential if the state is to marshal its resources effectively against the threat of terrorism. The recent spate of attacks highlights the reality that fragmented political responses only embolden terrorist elements seeking to exploit national divisions.

It is welcome that the government has responded positively to his initiative. Dialogue is not a concession in this context; it is a democratic responsibility. The PTI, for its part, must now reflect seriously on the costs of continued disengagement. National security cannot be made hostage to intra-party considerations. In boycotting the previous session, the PTI put personality politics ahead of the national interest — a misstep that must not be repeated. Elected representatives are duty-bound to put their constituents’ safety above political strategy. It is also worth remembering that effective counterterrorism policy requires political ownership. Without consensus, implementation remains weak and short-lived. The meeting must not be symbolic: it should produce concrete understandings on how to secure vulnerable regions and address the drivers of militancy. Mr Bhutto-Zardari’s offer is a reminder that consensus is still possible — if all sides show political maturity. The PTI must step up. If there is to be a united front against terrorism, then this renewed opportunity to talk must not be squandered.

Published in Dawn, March 27th, 2025