Or will they continue down the path of self-preservation, further entrenching the nation in this seemingly endless cycle of political instability? The choice, as always, lies in their hands. Pakistan’s over 240 million citizens find themselves enduring a persistent misfortune the unwavering inability of their political leadership to learn from past mistakes. Once more, the nation stands at a critical juncture, yet for perhaps the first time, there appears to be a broad consensus on the root cause of its political instability. Even parties that have historically accommodated the establishment now exhibit a sense of unease, acutely aware that they could soon become the target. One would anticipate this realization to compel popular politicians, whose political fortunes depend on a robust Pakistani democracy, to collaborate and forge a path that safeguards its future. On the other hand, the current landscape reveals a disheartening reality. The supposed champions of democratic rule the leaders of these very parties are engaged in petty squabbles over who receives the most favor from those who have consistently strived to overstep their rightful authority. This exemplifies the tragedy of Pakistan’s pursuit of civilian supremacy its most ardent advocates are often the first to undermine it. The situation was significantly exacerbated by the recent general election. The path could have been considerably smoother had our political actors heeded the numerous calls from this publication and others to engage in pre-election dialogue, seeking common ground through open communication. Instead, our political parties collectively displayed a lack of genuine commitment to this objective. Those enjoying the “good graces” of the establishment believed legitimacy would be bestowed upon them through the polls. Conversely, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) harbored the misplaced belief that the democratic system, which it had itself contributed to weakening, would ultimately rescue it. Neither party secured their desired outcome. The Pakistani people effectively thwarted the attempts of the powerful to manipulate the results, yet the powerful likewise denied the people the outcome they craved. Consequently, we find ourselves once again in a state of gridlock. To suggest otherwise would be a delusion. The path forward remains shrouded in uncertainty. We hear whispers of reconciliation, but how can such a process be achieved when one side holds the belief that they deserve power but lack the capacity to wield it, while the other wields the power but recognizes its lack of legitimacy? Resolving this conflict is no easy feat, particularly when those envisioned as impartial arbiters exhibit no interest in becoming embroiled. However, what other options do our leaders have? Revolutions are inherently unpredictable, and politics, at its core, is the art of achieving the feasible. Without compromise, our politicians will never realize their objectives. It is high time they comprehend that the crux of the issue is not their perpetual rivalry, but rather their dependence on non-political forces to intervene. The nation has endured significant division as a consequence of their refusal to acknowledge this fundamental reality: they owe it to the people of Pakistan to make a genuine effort to work together.