Though we have lurched from crisis to crisis since independence, the current situation casts a cloud over the country, with many people, particularly the young, losing hope of leading a meaningful life in their homeland.
The ruling class has done little to dispel the clouds of gloom, and they are the primary reason why roughly 240 million people today see no light at the end of the tunnel. While we are informed that the economy is recovering, a major portion of the population is battling with high prices, with many being forced into poverty or bare sustenance.
On the political front, it appears that none of the major players want to reach a big compromise for the sake of the nation. Extremist elements are also casting a dark shadow over this region, threatening to destroy the nation Jinnah established.
We are in terrible problems because, throughout the decades, we have consistently moved away from the vision of the founding fathers, particularly Quaid-i-Azam. If Providence allowed him to see modern-day Pakistan, would the noble man recognise the country for which he fought? It's highly doubtful.
We are in terrible problems because, throughout the decades, we have consistently moved away from the vision of the founding fathers, particularly Quaid-i-Azam. If Providence allowed him to see modern-day Pakistan, would the noble man recognise the country for which he fought? It's highly doubtful.
The Quaid left a blueprint for how the state should be managed, and most subsequent rulers have done all in their ability to ensure that none of his directions were carried out. For example, he had discussed democracy, constitutionalism, minority protection, and corruption elimination, among other topics. In each of these areas, we have done the exact opposite. In a 1943 Eid sermon, he stated that gangsterism and the cult of the dagger cannot resolve serious political challenges. Threats of violence cannot change people's political opinions." These foresightful statements sum up our current situation.
Political forces are demonstrating extraordinary rigidity, while the powers that be refuse to remain within the bounds of their constitutional role. Respect for the vote has been trampled, and people who peacefully protest for their rights are labelled 'terrorists' and 'troublemakers'. The only way to find atonement is to defend the constitutional framework and respect the popular will. Jinnah was unequivocal about this, and it remains true today as it did then.
'True' independence, as opposed to a political term, can only be achieved when Pakistan's children are assured of a better life, and the people of this country are liberated from a suffocating existence and may reach their full potential.
Published in The Mamma Bees on August 14, 2024.
Published in The Mamma Bees on August 14, 2024.
