Political demonstrations by different groups have gravely affected the country’s economy and threatened its security
ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has already lost volumes of finances due to the prolonged and incapacitating demonstrations and sit-ins by different political factions in the country. The country may lose even more in the times to come if people at the helm do not mend their ways. In monetary terms, the country has suffered losses to the tune of billions due to chaotic and violent protests. Had the groups that have been instrumental in organising these demonstrations and sit-ins realised that their undesirable actions would cost the Pakistani nation so dearly, they, perhaps, wouldn’t have resorted to such meaningless activities.
Unambiguously, the freedom to vent one’s thoughts and grievances is guaranteed by the constitution of every democratic and civilised society of the world. The Constitution of the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, too, like other civilised and democratic world societies, grants its citizens the right to freedom of expression. It is, however, expected of the individuals and groups to ensure that this freedom is not misconstrued to serve their own benefits. The freedom of expression that the Constitution of the country guarantees to its citizens must, under no circumstances, become detrimental to the country’s well-being.
The ongoing political demonstrations organised by different groups have gravely affected the country’s economy and seriously threatened its security and integrity. They have also tarnished the image of the country in the comity of civilised nations of the world. In economic terms, it has seriously affected the flow of foreign investment in the country, thus retarding economic growth and drastically reducing opportunities for employment. Above all, the $46 billion Chinese investment that has been termed a ‘game changer’ not only for Pakistan but the entire region also stands perilously threatened due to the escalating political instability in the country. The latest Panama conundrum is expected to further aggravate the already uncertain political and socio-economic situation in Pakistan.
The political groups that are consistently engaged in creating undesirable mayhem must make sincere endeavours to appreciate the gravity of the situation. They should make concerted efforts to bring progress and stability to Pakistan. They must comprehend that their vested interests have already caused colossal damage to this country. Perpetual agitation for the attainment of personal goals may cause further harm if these do not stop forthwith. The sooner they realise this stark reality, the better it would be for them as well as for this nation.
M Fazal Elahi
Published in The Express Tribune, April 23rd, 2016.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
