These days to derive similarity between Tunisian state of affairs and Pakistans condition are in vogue and revolutionists seem to be gearing up. But, careful analysis is required to comprehend both the countries.
Firstly, in Tunisian revolution a dictator has been ousted and overthrown after 23 years, not a political figure. In Pakistan, dictators have been overthrown four times in 63 years and now only democratic forces represent masses.
Secondly, Pakistan is a victim of terrorism and is facing challenges of sectarian divide along with foreign intrusion in current law and order situation. In Tunisia, dilapidated socio-economic conditions may have caused this revolution, but Tunisia is not facing the challenge of extremism as Pakistan is facing.
Lastly, the geo-strategic position of Pakistan gives it a special edge over the other Muslim countries where proxy leadership had been installed by the others. But in our case no proxy leadership has been installed by the West in running this country as is evident from multiparty system. All these reasons do not allow any such Tunisian contagion to spread in Pakistan. So progress through evolution is much expected than revolution.
HEENA KHAN
Lahore
