LAHORE Despite differences and reservations between the PML-N and the PML-Q leaderships over the unification of different Muslim League factions, a mutual understanding is very much evident between the two sides in the Parliament on various issues including the Reformed General Sales Tax (RGST). As directed by their respective leadership, the top parliamentarians of both the parties are in close contact with each other and are discussing the prospects of unification. They are of the view that a reunited Muslim League is the only hope for real democratic change in the country and protecting the national interests besides tackling the multiple internal and external challenges. They also mention the elder 'Mian and the younger 'Chaudhry as the hurdles in the unification process. Reliable sources within the Nawaz and Quaid Leagues say the merger does not depend on Islamabad but on Lahore, as any progress made in the provincial metropolis can change the political scenario in the country. A PML-N leader, on condition of anonymity, told daily Nawa-i-Waqt that there were no two opinions on Chaudhrys differences with Gen (r) Pervez Musharraf but it was the PPP which was capitalising on the division. We are not ready to forgive the Q-Leaguers for the crime they committed by supporting Musharraf, but at the same time, we are not destabilising those who came into power on Musharrafs agenda through the National Reconciliation Order (NRO). In his opinion, the unification would not only bring political changes but this would also pave the way for mid-term polls, which can result in political and parliamentary role of Nawaz Sharif. On the other hand, the PML-Q sources say Ch Shujaat Hussain had not only showed a soft corner for unification but had also given clear signals to Raiwind for the purpose. But the gesture was rejected terming it as a sign of weakness of Ch Shujaat, they add. They say Shujaat and Nawaz can resolve the matter in just a few hours if they sit together. Some elements, having no political importance, surround Nawaz and the unification would deal a blow to them. Nawaz and his family had to swallow the bitter pill of exile because of the same people, they add. They also point out to some personalities in the ranks of the PML-Q who always looked towards govt for personal gains and gave priority to Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi. Some of them are always ready to consider the suggestions of alliance with the PPP, they said. Furthermore, although the senior Leaguers do not insist on merger openly, they term the suggested move as the need of the hour. The people having in depth knowledge of the countrys politics say the unification is a very good idea but it is not that simple. Some of the influential actors, who are following their foreign masters dictation, are doing their best to stop the political forces from realigning themselves, as it does not fit into their scheme of things. They say the kingmakers in Pakistan are targeting Nawaz, as they do not want him to become too powerful and turn out to be a threat for them. They are using the PML-Q for this purpose, they opine. There is a strong possibility of a political realignment before the next general elections and the rivals may welcome each other with open arms while the allies challenge from the same platform. They are of considerate opinion that notwithstanding all the reservations, it seems that the two-party system would continue to function in the country.