Political disputes need dialogue, not confrontation

September 25, 2026

The federal government’s decision to deploy Rangers in Islamabad and several districts of Punjab ahead of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) planned march on September 27 reflects the seriousness of the political situation. The Rangers have been authorised to assist the civil administration and respond to threats or violent activity in accordance with the law. The deployment is scheduled to remain in place until October 5. The authorities have also taken other security measures. Containers have been placed at different locations and restrictions have been imposed on several routes leading towards Islamabad. Such measures can be understandable from the perspective of maintaining public order when a large political gathering is expected. But they also carry a cost for ordinary citizens, businesses, transporters and people who need to travel between cities.

This situation raises a larger question about the way political disagreements are being handled in Pakistan. The PTI has announced its march with demands including the release of its founder Imran Khan and what it describes as the restoration of constitutional supremacy. The government, on the other hand, has said that it will not allow a march into Islamabad under the present circumstances. 

Neither position should make political dialogue impossible.

Prime Minister’s Adviser on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has acknowledged that backchannel contact with PTI leaders is continuing, while saying that formal negotiations cannot proceed unless the planned march is postponed. This is important because the existence of a communication channel provides an opportunity to reduce tensions before the situation becomes more difficult.

Political parties will always have differences. In a democratic system, however, political differences are normally addressed through dialogue, parliamentary processes, negotiations and other constitutional means. Protest is also part of political activity, but it should remain peaceful and should not put citizens, public property or essential services at risk.

The government has a responsibility to protect people and maintain public order. At the same time, it should keep political and democratic space open wherever possible. The opposition also has a responsibility to ensure that its political activities remain peaceful and do not create unnecessary hardship for the public.