The Pakistani Spectator

This is a critical juncture for the Pakistani security forces and the political leaders. The death of Baitullah Mehsud is an opportunity to make inroads in the Waziristan area. Now there is no bigwig present right now to lead the TTP. Fazlullah of Swat is injured and as his gang has been destroyed and disbanded in the Swat, he has little say in the matters, especially after his friend Baitullah is dead.

Waliur Rehman, Hakimullah Mehsud and Azmat ullah and Maulvi Nazir don’t enjoy the stature of the Baitullah. In the Mehsud tribe, there is no one to succeed Baitullah. It is likely that Tehreek-e-Taliban would once again splinter. The new leader after Baitullah would try to make his mark and that is dangerous for the Pakistan, as it could start a new spree of suicide attacks and bomb blasts. Baitullah made his redoubtable reputation in the Waziristan just because of his continuous terrorism, and the new leader would surely try to follow his footprints.

That is where the security forces must put extreme effort with the help of US and NATO. Drone Attacks, and jet bombing and use of artillary should be applied at the hideouts, but above all political leadership must start a dialogue with the elders of Waziristan. Now the Pakistan is on the upper edge, and they can negotiate or rather dictate from the position of strength. This chance must not be missed.