The new emerging political party PTI is struggling to expand its vote bank. For this, it is holding various public meetings much before the general elections, the date for which is yet to be announced.
As goes the history of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insafs’ mass rallies, the previous ones, no doubt were helpful in bettering the PTI’s public image. But the last one held at Rawalpindi on August 13, has unfortunately left a considerable bad effect on its image and undine much of the progress that they made in the previously held rallies.
This was because of filthy language used by Sheikh Rashid in the said public meeting which was held under the banner of PTI, or with its collaboration.
Unfortunately, social etiquette does not permit us to quote his words here. This is not the first time he has lost his mind. In the past also, he had frequently used such objectionable language against his opponents in public meetings. And even against the CJ himself, whom he was beseeching for action.
The presence of Imran Khan on the stage has created an impression that he gave his tacit approval to the name calling. When he held the podium, he could have immediately dissociated himself from obnoxious remarks made by Sheikh Rashid.
I had chance to attend a public meeting of Shaheed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto (ZAB), before he came to power, where late Mir Rasool Bux Talpur, out of emotions made scathing remarks against PPP opponents. When ZAB came to the dais, he without hesitation tempered the remarks made by his colleagues and tried to dispel the bad blood created.
Such irresponsible behavior of political leaders would cause further polarization in society and they must put a check on their sharp tongues.
The Election Commission of Pakistan should take notice of bad behavior of few individuals seriously so that when the general elections are held in the upcoming months, they take place in a cordial environment, no untoward incident takes place and the transition of power takes place smoothly. It is only when we adhere to democratic norms and principles and civil behaviour that democracy will be strengthened.
S BUKHARI
Karachi