The ‘right’ man
The prime minister’s ultimate choice for the new Punjab governor must have disappointed a few prominent loyalists lining up for the coveted position, but the matter was handled in typical N-league fashion. It did not disturb too many people in the power structure that the position lay vacant for so long. That is understandable. It had to be the ‘right’ man. And there was no way they could afford a rerun of the Ch Sarwar embarrassment.
The choice of Senator Rafique Rajwana, therefore, is an interesting reflection of the N-league’s politics; a prominent lawyer from Multan who has served the family well – legally, of course. The south card is important. Already PTI has penetrated the area well. And PPP’s attempts at revitalisation also banked on ingress in the Sharifs’ home-ground from the south. So, it occupies a very important square on the political chess board. And much importantly, he has no political ambitions like his predecessor, so there’s little chance of unnecessary confrontations with corrupt elements like land mafia, etc. That, of course, is what’s most ‘right’ about him. He will do what is expected of him – mind his own business and not fiddle with the status quo.
That, in a way, is unfortunate. The good thing about Ch Sarwar was his genuine desire, and attempts, for widespread reform. Owing to his influence and success overseas, he was also at the centre of an appreciated effort to connect the diaspora – especially in Europe – more productively with the homeland. Remember remittances already play a big role in keeping the economy solvent. More serious involvement would definitely have benefitted the overall economy, eventually expanding the Sharifs’ own vote bank. But such long term vision is not very prominent in our political landscape. And once again more immediate concerns were given priority – maintaining the power base, even if it means ruling out reforms for the time being.
