Dr Hasan Askari in his article “Is politics failing in Karachi” (31 Aug) has analysed the current situation of Karachi in light of Zulfiqar Mirza’s outbursts against MQM with some serious allegations. What Mirza said in his press conference was known to the entire world.
The writer is right as far as he talks about ethnic divide and says that the entire politics of the parties revolve around their respective ethnic partisan agendas and they are least bothered about the remaining people.
Most people feel rightly that it is a political solution that is needed. On numerous occasions, political solutions have been deliberately avoided as they are not desired by the political parties. Empowering the law enforcement agencies, depoliticising the police, across the board operations etc, etc, etc are all old and tried and failed solutions. Under the present environment, we need aggressive and pro-active policies to restore peace, law and order and some type of sanity in our government institutions. What are then the options available in this regard?
One has to understand the political history of Pakistan to come up with a workable option. Our history has seen a constant tussle for power between the army and the political leaders. After 64 years of Pakistan, when all other institutions are crumbling, the army still maintains its efficiency and authority. If conditions do not change, no one can stop the army from taking action in Pakistan. This would have disastrous effects on the country.
The judiciary has to play its role in the best interest of the country. It should invoke the relevant article of the constitution call in the army to restore law and order within a specific timeframe. The judiciary should initiate criminal proceedings against those responsible. Lastly, all political parties who matter should join hands together to turn this country free from exploitation where rule of law prevails. They should seek forgiveness from the people of Pakistan for their past deeds.
A difficult option but probably the most workable to save this country from total collapse. Confucius says, “The journey of a thousand miles begins with one small step.” Let us take the first small step and be the pioneers for a better Pakistan.
MUKHTAR AHMED
Karachi