- PTI needs to avoid self-inflicted wounds
Irrespective of its views about the successive governments, this paper has consistently supported their right to complete a five-year tenure. That each one of the last two governments successfully concluded its full tenure leading to an orderly transfer of power has strengthened the system. It would further strengthen democracy in case the PTI government remains in power for the next five years.
For this the government has to overcome its shortcomings. The PTI leadership bases vital plans on hopes and expectations rather than ground realities; it has yet to come out of the opposition mode; its style of work needs improvement; and it has also to overcome the urge for quick fixes.
Rushing to Saudi Arabia with an application for loan in hand amidst an international investment conference, ignoring that the moot was called by the kingdom for the specific purpose of seeking foreign investments in Saudi Arabia, is less than dignified. Let us hope the PM manages to get the facility without compromising Pakistan’s position on its Gulf policy.
Like Nawaz Sharif Imran Khan too has over-burdened himself with an additional ministry that needs full time attention. Sharif allowed foreign relations to suffer, Imran is likely to allow drift in the internal affairs. The inefficient way the government has moved to address the concerns of the FATF can harm the country’s economy and create additional problems for the administration.
Irresponsible statements by government officials about CPEC and Pak-China relations can sour relations with a country which has invested billions in Pakistan. The railway minister unilaterally announced cutting down the railway project under CPEC by $2b. The adviser on commerce accused previous government of doing a bad job negotiating CPEC with China.
A crass disregard for the 18th amendment will array Sindh and Balochistan against the federal government. Devising policies on behalf of provinces has to stop. The PTI badly needs to suppress the urge for vindictiveness if it wants to have a smooth sailing. After complaints of government-NAB collusion to suppress the opposition, the administration is now planning to put curbs on media through the proposed PMRA. An uncalled for confrontation with media would be a self-inflicted wound which must be shunned.
