Let me start by saying that, in general, there is no easy way for youngsters to enter into politics in Pakistan. A general observation reveals that for one to be considered seriously for the ‘unholy alliance’ of politicians, one has to be influential. And if you think yourself to be influential only because you have the requisite enthusiasm and good ideas, you may have to revisit the very definition of ‘influential’. In the real world of Pakistani politics, good intentions and calibre hardly serve anyone. Well, if you add to the mix a powerful family background, a good financial status and a vulnerable group of people to make your constituency, your chances may well be far better. And added advantage accrued if you have a little charisma added to the mix as well.

Granted all the wonders today’s ubiquitous media have done with its hyper-vigilance and all the awareness spread, electoral preferences still are overshadowed by the galli-mohalla politics of sorts. A little promise of better roads, assurance of security from the dangers of thana/katchehri and the likes do the trick. If you do not seem to be able to get things done, what good are you? Remember, being “influential” was the pre-requisite? Meanwhile national interest, party manifesto and law-making would not concern anyone.

Not that the environment of competition and level of tolerance is appreciable in non-politician Pakistanis, there is a special inherent zero-tolerance policy for potential new entrants into politics. The existing clout of politicians would not let anyone thrive under their nose to be a danger for the status quo. Devolution of power is anathema to these politicians. The unwillingness of the politicians of the two bigger provinces – Punjab and Sindh – to hold the Local Government polls illustrates the point. They have been dillydallying their way out of this for long. It’s a pity is that the otherwise backward province of Balochistan was the first to hold the polls.

This is the sorry state of affairs for a person wishing to take part in politics.

There’s a big lot of youngsters aspiring to be stakeholders. They are politically charged already and now aware as well. Thanks to the media channels for their part. These youngsters are looking up to the political parties to be taken up and made part of the political processes. And the zero-tolerance policy of these political parties pours cold water on their aspirations. Sigh.

There is a need for a moment of realization here. There is a need for channelizing this talented lot of youngsters. Disappointed, they can only take to Twitter and Facebook to vent their emotions. Disillusioned, a big chunk of the educated and promising youngsters leave the country for good. We are familiar with the trend of brain-drain growing out of proportion. Political culture in our country should better be inclusive enough to make these promising individuals part of the process. Political training of the new entrants shall be much appreciated.

The need for fresh blood in politics today cannot be more emphasized.

There are two initiatives which should be noted here. One is the project of Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT) called Youth Parliament Pakistan. Talented individuals are selected and their training in the political processes is conducted. Another relevant initiative was started by the Chairman of Senate Mian Raza Rabbani. He mentioned it while talking to the members of Youth Parliament in August in his chamber. It is called Parliamentary Internship Program.

More of these initiatives need to be taken.