All grudges came to an end after a face to face meeting between Prime Minister (PM) Nawaz Sharif and Federal Interior Minister (IM) Nisar Ali Khan. Reportedly, Punjab Chief Minister Shahbaz Sharif was the facilitator of this meeting. The IM has been assured by the PM that all his grievances will be addressed. The IM had long been alienated from the PM and resentful of interference in his ministry’s affairs. Favouritism and the non-cooperative attitude of the PM were some of the reasons for the lingering resentment. The conspicuous absence of the IM at important meetings related to the National Action Plan (NAP) and the apex committee meetings were an indication that the relationship between Nisar and Nawaz Sharif was strained. There were three main reservations that were the bone of contention. First, the IM was disturbed over the violation of merit in the Interior Ministry at the instigation of other party leaders. The IM was furious over the reinstatement of SP Irum Abbasi by the federal government, who was suspended for misusing her authority. Second, the stoppage of funds for the National Counter Terrorism Authority (NACTA) was one of the main reasons for the differences. Nisar had often described the shortage of funds as one of the major causes behind NACTA’s poor performance. Third, the government’s refusal to allow FIA to follow through on an inquiry into corruption committed during the previous PPP-led regime was another of the conflicts between the PM and the IM. Nisar wants to take action against those in the PPP involved in corruption but the PML-N’s senior leadership does not want to open another Pandora’s box. The PML-N leadership may feel that the opening of cases against the PPP leadership could rebound against its own leaders. It was also feared that by pursuing an inquiry against the PPP leadership, the PML-N would lose its support in the Centre. Many corruption cases in the past were based on political victimisation. However, if cases are of a genuine nature, the looters of public money should be brought to justice. The PM has assured the IM that the federal government will not interfere in the ministry’s affairs and upholding of merit. The PM has also assured the IM that adequate funds will be allocated for the NAP and NACTA in this year’s budget. The security issue is a major challenge being faced by the country and if a minister is doing something to curb this threat, he should be supported and provided enough resources by the federal government. The premier needs to keep his word and set examples of good governance by ensuring merit and fair play at all levels. *