This actually is a very valid point. If the PTI is really smart, it'll hold it's powder in reserve for say the next 2 - 2.5 years. One way or the other, there's going to be whole lot of pain for the Pakistani public in terms of inflation, privatisation etc. during this period. Let the PMLN take these tough decisions per the IMF program and wait for the economy to turn.
At the right point, when it's beginning to turn at the Macro level - Forex reserves, FDI etc., but before it starts trickling down to the masses which will take another 12 to 18 months, come out into the streets and force an election. Then you can ride that wave to victory as long as you don't **** the Establishment off again.
Two concerns though
- Imran is already a pretty old guy and will be much older in 2 to 2.5 years. Will he still have the energy for a mass movement. That's assuming he strikes a deal and makes it out of jail
- I'm sure the PPP is planning something similar. Support the PMLN from the outside through the tough decisions, take no blame for them and pull the rug out from under them when the time is right. Question is whether they have the quality of leadership to be able to pull such an elaborate fan dance off.