A new olive branch?

The PTI has long been on a seesaw of hope and despair. Recent reports of an offer of talks from the government signal a new prospect for a meaningful dialogue - one that could bail the party out of its miseries and provide a level-playing field. This potential, which hinges on the reported offer, must now see the light of day. The opposition, which has already hinted at a willingness to iron out differences in a proactive manner, should seize this opportunity. Moreover, the fact that PTI founder Imran Khan has unconditionally authorised Mehmood Achakzai and Allama Nasir Abbas to enter into a tête-à-tête with all those who matter must now mature into a breakthrough. Arbitrary conditions and backtracking by either side, driven by their respective whims, have already taken a heavy toll on political stability. It is high time this changed for the collective good. The ball, nonetheless, remains in the government's court. It must ensure that it is sincere in engaging an opposition that has been literally pushed to the wall. The signs of such a change could manifest as lawful relief from the judiciary, which has been left in limbo since coming under executive influence through rushed amendments to the Constitution. There are early signs of a thaw, as this week's cause list for the superior judiciary is occupied with cases pertaining to the incarcerated PTI chairman and his spouse. It remains to be seen, however, to what extent justice will be dispensed. Likewise, reports of backchannel contacts are a positive development, coupled with the optimism surrounding K-P Chief Minister Sohail Afridi rubbing shoulders with the powers-that-be and receiving prominent media coverage. It is high time for both the government and the opposition to realise that the country cannot withstand this prevailing anxiety. With challenging external environments on both the eastern and western fronts, and global supply chains severely hampered, a united political front is urgently needed to pull the nation out of the abyss of uncertainty.