Pakistan: turmoil,implosions and drama
Pakistan is once again in political turmoil. Two popular Punjabi leaders are disqualified by a court that has been maligned over the last few months. Governor’s rule has been imposed in the larger province – epicentre of Pakistani power.
Overall these recent developments do not bode well for democratic development – after all it has only been a year but it seems that our political elites have learnt no lesson from history and even their personal tribulations. Both Zardari and Sharif have suffered over the last decade and their parties were in the wilderness. And, now they cannot resolve their differences. What a shame. It does not matter who is right or wrong – the country gave a split mandate last February and both parties had the obligation to cooperate and perform. It appears that our expectations from the elected leaders were way too many. They remain their old, bickeringselves.
At my other blog-zine Pak Tea House, I have posted a few interesting analyses. Do visit if you want to see how the debate is unfolding: the rationalist argument, the political insight and a ‘scathing comment on the Sharifs of the situation.
Indeed it is sad to see civilian rule — apparently — collapsing so soon. In these difficult times, one needs to keep an eye on the big picture (not only in Pakistan, everywhere in our world today).
Personalities — those of Zaradari and Sharif, for example — are less important than principles after all. Pakistan seems to face some stark choices, including one between an elected civilian government and a return to a more authoritarian form of government.
I hope I’m being overly pessimistic, but the scales don’t seem necessarily to to be weighted in favour of democracy and civilian rule.
Pamposh, many thanks for your nice message. No please don’t be so pessimistic. We hope that this return to authorotarianism does not take place.
regards, R