I have witnessed many political processions, gatherings and agitations against sitting governments. The results that emerge from these anti governments movements have been painful and make me sick and scared. The respective governments that assume power could not solve economic and political problems, as few wealthy people enjoyed all the benefits while the poor were driven to further devastation. Almost all power holders failed in regards to provisions of pure drinking water, unadulterated basic necessities of life, health and educational facilities. They could neither maintain peace nor provide security. The rulers blamed their predecessors instead of accepting their own shortcomings. The unpleasant and aggressive behaviour of some ministers of the current government against their opponents succeeded in creating unrest, rift, and divisions among the public, rather than creating unity and harmony. Although the present generation of politicians, barring a few, are products of authoritarian rule, they advertise themselves as democrats and their opponents as enemy of the state. This seems to be very unfair as in a democratic order, opposition is not only necessary but vital for pointing out the shortcomings and malpractices of parliamentarians; their criticism is to be taken as measure of correction.
Likewise, the opposition leaders can do a greater service to the people and to the country if they voluntarily stop these unnecessary rallies and dharnas which cause inconvenience to the general public.
If our rulers and their opponents get rid of the menace of self-love and righteousness, get together rather than tougher, and shed their prejudices and grudges against each other in the national interest, they would be trusted and respected by the national and international communities. They must bear in mind that “no one was better than the other at the time of reckoning.” They must also realise that it is the common man who suffers the most due to their quarrel for powers and he deserves some respite. By doing such things they shall render a great service to the people and democracy.
RAJA SHAFAATULLAH,
Islamabad, September 12.