The first impression might not be the last impression; however, it is a known fact that first impressions have a lasting impact. It is also common knowledge that people who hold important offices such as those of the government are representatives of the state and are expected to hold a certain degree of responsibility in how they carry themselves.
How you conduct yourself is how you will be treated. In simple words, you are treated as how you are perceived.
Just days ago, Information and Broadcasting Federal Minister Marriyum Aurangzeb during the International Conference of News Agencies remarked that Pakistan is fighting a ‘war of perception’. Besides other factors, this perception is mainly based on the fact that the world assumes the people of a country to be similar to their leaders.
Here’s a short selection of a few Pakistani politicians who either put their best foot forward or contribute to the country’s poor image.
THE GOOD
-Maryam Nawaz
The former first daughter is ready for every occasion, good or bad. From the birth of a grandchild to corruption case hearings which might see her going to jail. If her party is going through a bad time, you won’t be able to tell because she is always calm, composed and dressed to impress.
-Khawaja Asif
He might speak English with a Punjabi accent but he can articulate his point very well. Also, extra points for knowing the proper etiquette of wearing a suit.
-Sherry Rehman
Besides always looking like a ten out of ten, the former diplomat and opposition leader is well-spoken, well-read, and leaves a good impression after every interview.
THE BAD
-Mamnoon Hussain
On the plus side, we and the world don’t get to see him often. That said, one would expect that the president of a country knows his way to a dentist and can deliver a speech that is worthy of listening.
–Imran Khan
As if Imran Khan’s schoolboy behaviour is not embarrassing enough, he indulges in the same petty, non-serious behaviour most of his colleagues’ exhibit by taking part in cheap Twitter wars about his personal life as tit for tat.
1. For 3 days I have been wondering have I looted a bank; or money laundered bns in nation’s wealth; or ordered a model-town-like killing spree; or revealed state secrets to India? I have done none of these but discovered I have committed a bigger crime: wanting to get married.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 9, 2018
5. I have known the Sharifs for 40 years and I know all their sordid personal lives but I would never stoop to the level of exposing these sordid details.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 9, 2018
6. All I ask of my well wishers and supporters is that they pray I find personal happiness which, except for a few years, I have been deprived of.
— Imran Khan (@ImranKhanPTI) January 9, 2018
-Captain (r) Mohammad Safdar
If Maryam is the sun, then Captain (r) Safdar is the eclipse. The man who has zero identity without his wife makes up by grabbing attention with racist remarks.
-Farooq Sattar
There is a lot that can be said about this man but this picture will suffice.
THE CREEPY
-Altaf Hussain
This man is a walking, talking manifestation of the seven deadly sins. The media has deemed him unworthy of any coverage more than a mention. But we’re sure you know what we are talking about. Or if you don’t, please head over to Youtube, type his name and be entertained. You might need some Panadol (1000mg) afterwards, however.
