The only solution to our problems

To the lovers of democracy, freedom, human rights, and justice and for all without discrimination of colour, caste, creed and religion. Pakistan was founded for the religious, social, economic and political empowerment of the Muslims of the subcontinent; subsequently transforming a piece of land into a modern, progressive, democratic, and welfare Islamic state. Since the independence to August 2008, it has been sixty-one years of struggle but the objectives are not achieved yet. The ground realities are heartbreaking. There are numerous "isms" in our society, such as terrorism, extremism, sectarianism, militarism, capitalism, and feudalism. It is self-evident that all the above-mentioned had devastating, antagonistic and abusive consequences for the poor populace of Pakistan. The empirical findings illustrate that our country is going down everyday. The energy crisis, flour crisis, stock exchange crisis, real estate scams, and the suicide bombings provided sufficient evidence of the downfall of the state. Who is responsible to rectify the current state of affairs? It is an intricate task to control the current situation; it is not within the government sphere. All of us must be responsible and responsive. There is patriotism in our countrymen that needs a right direction, which will transform Pakistan into an unwavering state. Noam Chomsky is a critic of the American imperial policies. He gives a devastating critique of the American intellectuals and has rightly stated in his book titled American Power and the New Mandarins: "It is the responsibility of intellectuals to speak the truth and to expose the lies." Chomsky is highly critical of subservient intellectuals, openly or subtly, to the rulers of society. By analogy it is understandable that it is the responsibility of Pakistani intelligentsia to educate the masses on murkiness, and to exposes the lies and to shed light on the impediments in our progression. Now, one must ask himself a question that what to do now? Musharraf is history now. His resignation was a good riddance. Certainly, the credit goes to Asif Ali Zardari and the democratic forces but we must not waste time in unnecessary jubilation. The democratic forces must vigorously move forward. In September, 2008, most likely PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari will assume the office of president. PPP co-chairman and the future President Asif Ali Zardari will have more burden on his shoulders to rescue Pakistan. After the tragic assassination of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Asif Ali Zardari raised the slogan of saving Pakistan. Since December 2007, he is playing safe and has emerged as a resilient, mature and sagacious leader. But in coming months more is required. The co-chairman has pledged avowedly to complete Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's mission. If Zardari really wants to accomplish the mission of Bhutto than he has to sincerely strive for the uplift of masses and the solidarity of Pakistan. Mr. Bhutto's mission can only be accomplished by implementing Bhuttoism in letter and spirit. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave a clarion call to establish a society based on four pillars (Bhuttoism): 1.    Islam is our Deen (Religion). The first pillar of Bhuttoism rejects the terrorism, extremism, and sectarianism in our society. Islam preaches moderation, tolerance, non-violence, and co-existence, hence, establishment of an enlightened, moderate, and egalitarian society. 2.    Democracy is our politics. It puts an end to militarism and dictatorship in our society. Preaches freedom of expression, independence of media, protection of human rights, rule of law and independence of justice system. The modern Muslim thinkers support democracy. Quaid-e-Azam achieved his target through democratic process. We need to democratise our society in essence. 3.    Socialism is our economy. It is a great challenge to the exploiters and marauders. The capitalist and the feudal lords have looted the resources of Pakistan. There is no economic parity. Socialism will put an end to capitalism and feudalism in our society. There is a dire need of economic and social justice. This will help to eradicate terrorism, criminals, prostitution, and other social evils. 4.    People are the source of power. In Islam, sovereignty belongs to Allah. The Islamic government is formed through elections for the well being of the people. The will of people is the part and parcel of Bhuttoism. People have every right to decide their fate. The fact of the matter is that the privileged class has always undermined the rights of unprivileged. The touts of imperialism are anti-public. It is very tragic that in the third world, people have no voice. Bhuttoism gives voice to the voiceless. The continuation of a democratic process will establish that the people are the source of power. Bhuttoism teaches social democracy. A recently published book by Dr Maqsood Jafri titled The Ideals of Bhutto, sheds light on Bhuttoism and presents it as a panacea of the social, economic and political ailments of Pakistan. Asif Ali Zardari needs a team of educated, honest, devoted politicians and intellectuals who believe in Bhuttoism and can play their part in the accomplishment of Bhuttoism. The million-dollar question is whether the present PPP leadership will implement Bhuttoism? Only time will tell as history is the best judge. However, it is easier said than done, which took lives of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and his dearest daughter Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. One can only pray and wish them Godspeed. The writer is a barrister and alumni of London and Cardiff University E-mail: barristerafzal@gmail.com

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