Change in the system

Only through democratic means

Since 1947, democratic forces have resolved to bring change in Pakistan, sometimes revolutionary and sometimes evolutionary. The founding fathers of this nation laid down the basis of an independent state but the idea of independence has been transformed at many levels. Call it Bhutto’s genius that brought the liberal and conservative forces under one platform to adopt the 1973 Constitution or the intuition of the people of Pakistan to live and prosper in a democratic country, this land has seen a lot of diverse changes in its socio-political system. Opinions have differed over the decades on the basic concept of separation of powers in Pakistan. Constitution came under different interpretations as the regimes changed, each with its own particular liking, tone and intention. Thus, every democratic or dictatorial regime has only been raising the slogan of “change” without bringing any real change.

The talk of revolution has been going on and on in governments after governments, yet the end results turned out to be the same. For once, the people of Pakistan must realise that all this nation needs is education and information in its true context. The idea of change is nothing new as every regime has been playing this masquerade. Some claimed to have done so by engaging the radical Muslims while the others stuck with the basic social needs of the masses. Still the majority of population in Pakistan resides in villages and are least bothered by any concept of change. Instead, their votes, the only true democratic determiner for a change, are mostly cast on the basis of candidate’s caste, family,

biradari, feudalism or nuisance value. Shouldn’t this be the real worry for the flag bearers of change as no real change is possible without bringing a change in the antiquated customs and norms of our society?

Come elections and every political party will come up with slogans to attract the masses. The political process in this country has been subject to interventions, causing severe damage in establishing institutes and rules. The only thing permanent here is the continuous and consistent intervention of non political organs into the civilian working. Why, then, is the political scenario in 2013 elections considered to be different from any other elections in the country? Why do political parties seem so geared up in bringing the necessary change? What’s so different about these elections? The statements issued by government representatives and opposition leaders always warn people of the dangers lying in future. Strangely, political parties are still showing optimism for the electoral process.

Punjab presents an excellent case study into this phenomenon. The involvement of the youth is considered a new litmus test for the popularity and success of a political party. The followers of such parties believe that the massive input given by the youngsters will help the “tsunami” or the “laptop holders” in claiming control over the executive and legislature. Chairman PTI Imran Khan of late has attracted more controversies, and perhaps political sagacity, than in his about two decade-long political career. Similarly, CM Punjab Shahbaz Sharif has maintained an image of clean and strict politician, who follows rules and does not allow others to deviate from them as well. He also has his own concept of bringing the “Youth Revolution” in Pakistan.

Both Shahbaz Sharif and Imran Khan are trying to woo the voters by targeting the issues of corruption and lawlessness. All this while they gained stature by showing their uncompromising attitude towards pro-government forces. Similarly, religious parties are still clinging to their anti-America approach for public support. PPP and PML-N are also targeting South Punjab by supporting their demand of a separate province. In other words, the political parties are showing their willingness to continue working within the system.

However, Pakistan requires more than willingness to make any significant headway. In the past, the people have been given false hopes of change. Can there be any change where candidates are still elected democratically and come into power through legal means? Or, maybe, the question should be: do we need any change? But then again, they promise roti, kapra, makan or so many other slogans, but do nothing when they actually hold power. We, the people of Pakistan, have got used to the idea of being gracefully dumped but we still continue to remain passionately hopeful for this country.

The success of political parties rests on the mobilisation of the people. Almost all the political parties that took part in 2008 general elections had a chance to serve in the government during the past five years at both federal and provincial levels. To the credit of opposition, no effort was made to derail the political process while the government gets the credit of sticking to democratic norms. The policies of PPP and its allied can be criticised on the basis of deteriorating law and order situation and continuously tumbling economy but the dignity and integrity shown by its leaders in abiding by the decisions of the apex court deserves great applause.

Major political forces in Pakistan seem to have learnt a lesson from the past and are sticking to the main goal of remaining on the path of strengthening democracy. However, the end result of this effort will not be revealed any sooner.

The writer can be reached at [email protected]