The appointment of Salman Taseer–a Musharraf-supporter, former PPP politician, and businessman–as governor of Punjab has sparked a heated debate in Pakistan.  Many argue that this is the first firing short, or perhaps the most audible, of a battle for Punjab, Pakistan’s largest province.

But the game is more likely far more complex.  Sandwiched in between the headlines is news of the acceptance of the nomination papers of Nawaz and Shahbaz Sharif.  The same election commission rejected their papers for February’s elections on grounds of previous convictions.  This time around, petitions against their eligibility were rejected by the Musharraf-appointed commission.  At the same time, the People’s Party has replaced the cabinet seats vacated by the Muslim League (Nawaz) largely with PPP ministers already in the cabinet (making them in charge of multiple ministries).

In other words, the PPP and Musharraf’s dealings with the PML(N) involve an alternating, and sometimes simultaneous, use of carrots and sticks.  Anything can happen in the coming days, weeks, and months.  But just as many see the PPP and PML(N) set on the path of confrontation, it is also possible that the PML(N) has consented to a safe exit for Musharraf around the time of the 2009 Senate elections when parliamentary numbers for the former general’s impeachment will be very much attainable.

Things are very fluid.  There’s a strong likelihood of Sharif and Zardari entering the National Assembly.  It remains to be seen whether the halls are big enough for the both of them.  But there is also possibility for the PML(N) returning to the cabinet and both parties giving their marriage a second chance.  In the midst though, the roller coaster ride, combined with increasing economic troubles, could delegitimize the democratic process and politicians.