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Imran’s revolutionary road
Imran Khan claims that his party, currently without any seats in the assemblies, will lead an electoral revolution.
The writer is a barrister and a public policy graduate from Harvard University [email protected]
Imran Khan claims that his party, currently without any seats in the assemblies, will lead an electoral revolution in 2013. Although I respect and admire Imran Khan for the cricketing hero he once was, for the philanthropist he still is and for the revolutionary leader he aspires to be, his personal and political life is rife with grave contradictions.
Khan has u-turned on every major decision in his life. In his autobiography, All Round View, he wrote of his promise to his mother to never bring home ‘a foreign wife’. Yet, he married English heiress Jemima Goldsmith. Then there was the Sita White affair, where Imran denied paternity of his illegitimate daughter until he was forced to accept it by a US court.
Personal life aside, even in politics, Imran Khan has been glaringly inconsistent. In the 1997 elections he was scathing about Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif, accusing them both of massive corruption. When a bomb went off at his Shaukat Khanum hospital in 1996, he even refused to meet Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto, implying that she was to blame. He always seemed more comfortable with the religious conservative, dictator Zia, than the elected moderate Benazir Bhutto. In his book he affectionately recalled yielding to Zia’s request to take back his resignation in 1987. In 1999, he supported General Musharraf’s coup, until the 2002 elections and then did a u-turn. One version is that he wanted to be nominated prime minister and turned bitter when he was told his party was not strong enough. He went on to wedge himself right of centre, often appearing at rallies second billing to theocracy loving, Taliban-sympathiser Qazi Hussain. He then performed another u-turn, joining hands with both the ‘corrupt’ Bhutto and Sharif in trying to unseat General Musharraf.
So where does he stand politically? He refuses to unequivocally condemn the ‘Taliban’. He talks of repelling American influence like an 18-year-old student, high on university polemic and activist zeal. His understanding of international affairs is more suited to Vanity Fair magazine than the Foreign Policy Journal. At the time Asif Zardari was elected president, Imran Khan remained silent. Sensing the tide of public opinion now against the president, he has become vitriolic in his statements, displaying a tendency to jump onto the bandwagon, rather than originality of thought. He rallies against western influences and ‘brown sahibs’ yet, both his children are being brought up in the height of western society. He claims democratic credentials yet, most people would be hard-pressed to name even one other office-bearer of his party. The PTI is run like a personality cult even after 15 years of its inception. Without him — it would be nothing.
Many of his supporters agree that Imran Khan would have been better off had he devoted the past 15 years to philanthropy alone — by now he would have had a hospital in every major city as well as schools and universities. He would have had popular support, credibility and cross-party political support for any social reform agenda. He would have been untainted by a relish for personal power. That is the final nail in the coffin of Imran’s hopes. Those close to Imran speak of his hefty ego — the need to be the centre of attention. It is understandable for a superstar who was mobbed wherever he went for two decades. That kind of fame is addictive. Remember the 1992 World Cup victory speech where he claimed the win as his achievement alone, forgetting to mention his team?
Although, he may be patriotic, untainted by financial corruption and charismatic, Imran Khan is not worthy of leading the revolution. The road to revolution is not paved with fundamental contradictions, u-turns and half-baked theories. It is forged, inch by inch, by a sterling character, self-sacrifice, unswerving principles and passion for the people. If Khan really wants to prove he can deliver results, then perhaps he should offer to manage and mentor the Pakistan cricket team in preparation for the 2011 World Cup. It would be a test case for his promise to tackle mismanagement and corruption. If he succeeds — well, that would be a mini revolution in itself.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 30th, 2010.
Reader Comments (226)
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YOU FORGET THE STRUGGLE FOR INDEPENTDANT JUDGES, MEDIA. HE HAS DONE ALOT FOR THER STRUGGLE.Recommend
Well said, he is well intended but thoroughly confused politician. He supported Musharraf’s referendum although by then Musharraf had “sold out” Pakistan to US. He later voted for Fazl ur Rehman of JUI-F despite his reputation as a corrupt politician. He opposed both Hudoon Ordinance and Women Protection Bill. He wants an independent judiciary but supports jirga system. He spent his entire life in the West but whoever disagrees with him is a Mughrib-Zada. He wants the youth to join him in his revolution, but when taliban blow up schools which deprived the youth of their right of education; he remains silent. Sectarian voilence is owned by known terrorist organizations but he claims that Blackwater has done it. He says that suicide blasts in markets, shrines and mosques are a result of US presence in Afghanistan! He says that Afghan taliban brought justice but never mentions about the brutal civil war between pushtoon taliban and tajiks or the massacre of 4000 Shias in Mazar Sharif. He says that taliban are pushtoon nationalists although they have massacred hundreds of maliks and attacked jirgas. He often talks about soverignty but never talks about absence of writ of government or presence of multi national terrorists in FATA. He never talked about the siege of Kurram agency or the extremist ideology that has been forced upon the tribals. Recommend
Well said Ms. Khan. You have done what many others aspire to do but fail; you have shown us the real Mr. Imran Khan by quoting facts not just the usual blah blah blah that we hear from most of his critics. Mr. Khan has been talking of revolution just like the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) which has been promising us an “Islamic Revolution” since 1947 but has been losing public support with each successive election – and Thank God for that! They have entered the corridors of power only during military regimes. The JI and its leaders like to portray themselves as civilized gentlemen compared to the rest of us. But they are not. Example: During the Zia (the hypocrite) regime Professor Ghafoor Ahmed was the Information Minister and you know what? Newspapers were forbidden from using any prefix e.g. Mr., Former Prime Minister etc. while mentioning Mr. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He was just to be called Bhutto-no more. I challenge anyone to prove me wrong. This is their true face and the people of Pakistan have seen through them. Your article will help put Mr. Imran Khan in his proper place. Thank you once again.Recommend
I thought u-turns produce leaders in Pakistan, perhaps Mr. Khan failed because his reservoir is relatively modest. Also, as the highly revered Abdus Sattar Edhi Saheb and billionairre Ross Perot, a former US presidential candidate, would both testify that philanthropy and money do not guarantee success in an election.Recommend
This has to be the most biased article i have ever read on Imran Khan with each paragraph outdoing the previous in terms of contradictions and false propaganda. The lady seems to have only read one paragraph in Imran’s autobiography on his promise to his mother without trying to comprehend its surrounding context.
I can take up each point raised and rip it apart but then, perhaps its right that such opinions are held on the person who is perhaps one of the handful honest men left in the country. Perhaps its right that we continue and will continue to vote for provably corrupt parties. Perhaps its right that an average poor man in Pakistan goes to the streets to sell his children. Perhaps its right that our economy continues to dwindle and looks set to remains on its slippery slope. Perhaps its right that in a few years we will be rightly called a failed state. We deserve all the sufferings we endure and are set to endure for the next 50 years, for the honest men are few and far apart and for the price of their honesty they are not given the support they deserve.
Jal te rahoRecommend
Completely Biased….
and so untrue.. Just to correct one of your fact, .” At the time Asif Zardari was elected president, Imran Khan remained silent” PTI was the only party which protested on streets against Zardari…Recommend
Mahreen Khan,
I happen to find this journal quite biased that reflects the agenda of an opposing party – maybe MQM. Many things mentioned are quite distorted and untrue. Moreover, if Imran can’t lead a revolution – who in your opinion has greater credibility to? Although I agree Imran has changed his stance regarding things; i believe that it shows hes only human – and more importantly, the path to true success is evolving ones thoughts and ideas.
AneesRecommend
Attacks on Imran Khan’s personal life and his ex-wife’s race and Sita White are really getting old now. And all the political parties and people who claim to have some sort of political acumen really need to grow up and leave his PAST alone. It is exactly that….his past.
Currently his life is dedicated to his party and his work. He has proven to be an excellent leader no matter what he does. Yes, his party is not very known and it seems to be a one man show. That does not mean it is not a democratic party…the leaders and faces are not popular because they have not been in power. Pakistanis are used to a leader pushing their way into government, so we HAVE to deal with them, and then we acknowledge them as “politicians”. After all, Zardari our president is only know for being the husband of Bhutto. Did he really have any other qualities that no one from PTI may possess?
And Imran Khan is in politics for his vision. If he sides with a particular party because he is allied with them on a particualr issue, this does not mean his is being hypocritical. He has said time and time again that yes, he did support Musharraf at one point. He also regrets this. And his reason is simple, same as a lot of Pakistanis- he though Musharraf had a decent vision for Pakistan and good intention. When Musharraf didnt deliver and power was getting the best of him- Imran decided not to support Musharraf. How hard is that to understand.
Imran KHan is very very far from power hungry. He will not sacrifice or compromise on his vision, and his ideology for power. This is one reason why he did not join a major political party or join any government. He did not contest in 2008 elections. Because he will not compromise. Whether his party wins one seat or none. He doesnt care….he is doing his part in trying to make a difference for his country. Whether Pakistanis want change or not is something the masses have to decide. But it doesnt matter to Imran Khan how long it takes to get into power…or whether it happens or not at all.
So grow up and stop bashing his past personal life. So much hate for such an honest and decent politician(very little mud-slinging compared to other parties in PTI) only means people see him as a threat. I wonder why Recommend
Despite many odds mentioned in above critique, One Question remains
Is there any body near to his caliber?
Compare him with the standing of other politicians.
he is better among the worse Recommend
She is biased, Imran khan is the one who can make this country a welfare state. He has vision, courage and most important he is not corrupt. She twisted the facts and tried to use her profession to express her personal agenda. I couldn’s read this all cuz this article’s poor quality.Recommend
Totally am shocked by the tired and borrowed arguments you present in this article because you are a great writer with original thoughts which contain substance. Your previous articles have been moving but this one is very disappointing. Among other inconsistencies in your article you talk of Imran Khan jumping on the bandwagon of Zardari bashing. I really wish you had done your homework because he was the only political leader to oppose Zardari’s election as present practically by holding a public demonstration against him in Islamabad. Here is the link to the story from the DailyTimes in which Imran criticized Zardar’s bid for the presidency because he was facing various corruption charges, August 25th 2008:
http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=20088\25\story25-8-2008pg7_14
Here is another link in which he challenges Zardari’s candidacy:http://www.dailytimes.com.pk/default.asp?page=200891\story1-9-2008pg7_18Recommend
A very nice article with substance and fact. No moralizing or philosophizing. Thank goodness!
As a sportsman he is exceptionally good. As a philanthropist, even better. But where Karachi players were concerned, Imran used to think and treat them as anathema. VERY BANAL INDEED.
He is no leader with any original plan (like the late ZAB and Benazir) to intelligently lead his party. He may have western features admired by many ladies but in today’s world of caustic and vitriolic politics, only imaginative sycophants join his PTI and will eventually leave it in dry dock.
Imran…………please leave politics and think of your daughter. You have had your playboy fun and your two sons have a mother to look after them. Your frustration and anger will automatically diminish once you give up this thankless calling and devote your time to the PCB and Shaukat Khanum hospital or any one of the two.
With salams and best wishes.Recommend
Hi,
I do believe that revolutions cannot be engineered inch by inch by any one personality, whatever be his/her credentials. It is a totally random event as can be seen in the history of revolutions, where an idea or personality is well placed to take advantage of the chaos that ensues when the pillars which maintain a civilization is totally decayed to give direction to the ire of people. There was rousseau’s philosophy during french revolution, Lenin well placed when the russian masses where disillusioned, Gandhi when the indian masses were ripe with anger and martin luther king when blacks started to break the shackles. Similarly there are negative ideas like that of hitler, mussolini who will create a fascist revolution. The question is whether the ire of pakistani society will be used by the likes of zaid hamid or a positive pakistani leader who can give it a more humane direction. I can see zaid hamid, i don’t see a mass leader who can counter the likes of hamid.
RegardsRecommend
To all of the people who posted before me:
Well said. Couldn’t have expressed my opinion on the article any better and I would like to add.
“Once I was listening to his interview and he recommended a book called “Confessions of an Economic Hitman”. Afterwards I read the book. It is a very well written book on economics and International politics involving World bank, foreign loans, foreign aid etc.
Just answer this question and you will get the answer,
“How many elected leaders in our parliament do you think are even capable of reading a book let alone recommending one?”
So yes, I accept Imran Khan with all his flaws over the bunch of bafoons who are sitting in the parliament right now.Recommend
Very well written article. I was fortunate enough to see Imran at his peak of his Career in Cricket. He is one of the best players produced by Pakistan and rightly inducted in Cricket Hall of Fame.
I was his big fan from late 70s to 2007.He was undoubtedly Pakistan’s First Express Pace Fast Bowler and he perfected the art of reverse swing after learning from former teammate Sarfaraz Nawaz. I also think that he should have given more time to his philanthropy cause’s and also helped Pakistan Cricket in coaching and guidance (time to pay back to the game which made him a house hold name in Pakistan and international super star elsewhere.)
His political statements and stands show lot of confusion and immaturity which made me as one of his big fans for more or less three decades distance myself from being his fan.Recommend
Totally biased Article.Recommend
I think the writer is being needlessly harsh on Imran Khan. He is fighting the likes of Altaf Hussain, Asif Zardari, Mr. Nawaz Sharif… amongst these jokers, Imran Khan is an angel.
His personal life is exactly that… PERSONAL. Lets keep that out.
His achievements in philanthropy, sports, etc are comparable to NONE of the politicians mentioned above… that in itself is a great achievement. But, there are several hundred thousand NGO’s in Pakistan… and yet Pakistan keeps going down the drain… a proof of a simple fact: People/NGOs alone can’t do squat for the country until the root cause of the problem, ie the corrupt Government, is fixed. That is what Imran Khan seeks to do.
Ms. Mehreen, I like you, some of your articles make me tearful in joy (the cricket article for example)… this one just made me cry.
You’re better than this, and you know better than anyone else, that amongst the vultures we have as our leaders, Imran Khan is a knight in shining armour, a ray of hope, a light at the end of the tunnel, etc etc.Recommend
‘Comment’ brigade of Imran Khan’s cyber army is active here.
Author: do not engage. Bitter is always sour.Recommend
Ms Khan’s article betrays her biased approach to judge a leader. She discredits Imran for marrying a foreigner against promise to his mother.Imran established a cancer hospital at Lahore and named it after his mother. It is easily the best managed hospital in the country where 80% of cancer patients get free treatment which is very expensive. And Imran built the hospital in memory of his mother and named the facility in her name whom he saw dying of cancer for lack of cancer treatment facilities. Is it not a far better tribute to his mother than not marrying according to her wishes? ?
I am not a Public Rrelations man for Imran. But being impressed by his sincerity of purpose and having full trust inn him I am financing construction of 42 bed In-Patient Ward. I would not have spent so much of my hard earned savings if did not trust Imran.
I am not a politician. But Imran is the only leader with the courage to demand all top politicians o declare assests here and abroad and the tax they pay. It infuses confidence in him. Bashir A. MalikRecommend
Excellent artcile, it’s not Imran Khan’s philanthropy that had earned him a following it is his personality. If Edhi had joined politics he would not have gotten quarter of Imran Khan’s following and he has done way more philanthropy than Imran Khan. If you talk about him being untainted by corruption there are many political leaders that have been untouched by corruption such as Asghar Khan, Mehmood Achakzai etc. Recommend
Its very unfortunate to read such a pathetic article from someone who is a graduate of such a quality institution like Harvard. My perception that such great institutes change the paradigm of ones thinking process and gives you a very unbiased poised personality has been shot point blank after reading this article. Seems like the writer has some personal motive for which venom is spurted out in this article. Personal and professional life has been blended to make sure all four corners are covered to defame Imran Khan.
1. The writer mentioned that Imran Khan has accepted the daughter of Sita White as her illegitimate daughter. Please back your statement with prove.
2. Can anyone tell me whats wrong if someone follows a good advice (irrespective of who is giving you which in this case is Gen. Zia but to you it sounds a positive one) and which turns out a very good one (considering Pakistan won the world cup). Which religion or rule or ethics of the world including common sense, says it wrong?
3. Please tel me if I am wrong and will sure youtube it now to see if Imran Khan took the whole credit of winning the world cup in his final cup speech. I think he said that this cup would help him in getting the hospital finished.
4. Writer said his children are taking education in the west. My question to the writer is doesn’t she oppose the west regarding certain (if not many) policies of their govt. Opposing the policies would stop her from sending her kids to have one of the best education from these countries? A foolish mistake which the Muslims of pre-partitioned India did after Britishers ruled the sub-continent and as a result Muslims development came to a stand still and Hindus went way ahead of us. Also, please name any politician whose children are not being educated abroad. Giving your children the best eudcation is the most sensible move for any third world country citizens so the country start to pace up its development.
5. Writer said Imran keeps joining hands with his opposition on different issues. Whats wrong in this? Doesn’t it happen globally? If issues are same and the required result is the same for both the parties then its sensible to join hands. But, I personally agree with you that i would not do it but politicians of today world do it.
6. She said that Imran should take up PCB as a test run. Now thats really funny. You want to test him, please see the management of Shaukat Khanum. I personally dont know how smooth is the running but what I heard is that it is very transparent and very effective. Also, during his tenure as cricket captain did you ever hear image crippling issues like match fixing?
I am not saying Imran Khan is a very pious human being, a saint. But we should appreciate anyone who is doing any good for this country even to the size of an ant because our country is going down the drain because of us all. I dont blame solely the politicians as we all made them sit where they are at the moment. If the nation is sensible enough only than we can have progress leaders. Lets change our self first because this is the only way to have a better tomorrow.Recommend
If you’re going to blame Imran Khan for being “inconsistent”, the least you could do is BE consistent, you know, show how it’s done.
Imran’s been an honest politician, and he’s consistently been behind whatever is and was in Pakistan’s best interests. He could have compromised and taken the ministership offered to him by Zia, or the dozens of assembly seats offered to him by Nawaz, or the Prime Ministership offered to him by Musharraf.
If you believed one thing on Monday, and learnt new facts on Tuesday, due to which your opinions were different on Wednesday – you’re not being “inconsistent”, you’re learning. Unlike our politicians who stick to their same tired old dogma for years and years, always spouting the same “roti, kapra, makaan” promises to get elected to high offices. Our mainstream politicians compromise on anything and everything to get into power and CONSTANTLY change their stance on so many things. And yet you don’t mention that. Just seems like a shallow propaganda hit-piece to me. Wonderful piece of journalism!Recommend
still people are expecting alot from Imran Khan. even expecting a revolution from him but i don’t think he would be able to secure more than 2 seats (may be less) in National Assembly. Philanthropy and money cannot be a guarantee for success in any political environment.Recommend
Totally agree with @Muhammad Zeeshan. Comment brigade of PTI are laughable.
The fact is that the article presents facts about Imran from his life – you cannot deny that he is a confused politician. As for the arguments that he is better than the rest – well that is so weak @Realist – that is the problem with us – we pin our hopes unrealistically to people and are then devastated when they cannot deliver.
I agree totally with this article – it is perfectly reasoned – Imran is a great hero and personality but he is not “worthy” of leading the revolution. Anyone who is banking on him to do that will face severe disappointment. His political philosophy is unclear as is his vision.
Come on then PTI keyboard warriors – anyone care to answer that?Recommend
Lets not forget Imran Khan’s mentor General (Retd.) Hameed Gul, with friends like these who needs enemies. There was a time when even Abdul Sattar Edhi had to leave the country because of threats to his life, people who he blamed were Hameed Gul and his protege IK. Kudos Mahreen for exposing this fraudster. Recommend
sad to read an article like that from miss khan….totally unimpressive arguments…..i pity on your enlightened mindRecommend
“Although I respect and admire Imran Khan for the cricketing hero he once was, for the philanthropist he still is and for the revolutionary leader he aspires to be, his personal and political life is rife with grave contradictions.”
An excellent article – I love the opening. That is what many of us feel. I was a kid in the 80′s and was named after Imran as many boys were back then. The fact is that Imran is an honest and charismatic person but he is not a revolutionary leader.
I am surprised by the poor level of comment by Imran supporters – just writing “biased” exposes your weakness of thought and intellect. How can you allege bias when the writer is so clear in admiration and praise for Imran’s work and contributions to our society as a sports hero and icon?
What a relief to see someone write with use of references from his own book. This article is food for serious thought for anyone genuinely supportive of Imran Khan. Instead of making unfounded allegations print it out and sit down with your leader – do some self examination. Imran has potential but definitely needs to sort these political inconsistencies out. Otherwise he will end up a failure.Recommend
Biased!!!!!Recommend
An excellent article – you express what people really feel. I like Imran and admire him for his cricket achievements and charity work but I too have my doubts about his political positioning. The points that you have highlighted are key factors which are sometimes glossed over.
@Adeel – I do not agree – his personal life is relevant because it goes against his own public pronouncements. He lied about having a daughter and was forced to admit it by a foreign court. That is relevant to his integrity as a public figure.
Yes he is still better than many of the others – but he is not the answer. Unless he does some major thinking and re orienting.Recommend
Imran is too arrogant to help the cricket team. And as you suggest it would be a test case on a mini scale but he would never do it.
I like him as a charity worker and sports icon but in politics his stand against womens rights and his support of the taliban and extremists is unforgivable.Recommend
ms khan: very well done that u have revealed some fact about character of imran khan…but what aibout the character of these people who are governing us right now or waiting for there turn to govern…??? if imran khan does not deserve for this revolution which is urgently need in our beloved country then who is capable for ?????Recommend
Great article – Imran is certainly very charismatic but hasn’t got a hope of delivering real change in Pakistan.
Mahreen you are absolutely right to point out that he is very unsure of where he stands. His pronouncements against the US are very immature. I disagree with US policy in your region but a statesman has to present his arguments with lucidity and in terms suitable for international discourse.
I also agree with the comment that it is dangerous to bank on Imran to solve Pakistan’s problems – do not expect too much from someone who has great intentions but really is not equipped to deliver. Recommend
Completely Biased (and full of hatred) article without any homework. Most of these points are answered by Imran Khan number of times. Some points like
“At the time Asif Zardari was elected president, Imran Khan remained silent.”
are completely false. The article is written in more of “Bash Imran Khan” spirit rather than doing an objective analysis.
Personally, I don’t see Imran Khan winning any election. Not because he is not good enough but because this nation of Beggars doesn’t deserve an honest leader. Recommend
Excellent article – am a fan of Captain Sahab but agree that he is full of contradictions and his support of Taliban/extremists is very worrying.Recommend
Great article – finally someone who can write in a balanced way using facts and references rather than moralizing and preaching – yep we admire Imran but even though I will definitely vote for him – I have my doubts about his promises for revolution. I hope he doesnt disappoint.Recommend
Excellent article – I really like Imran Khan for cricket but what you have written is true.
I had not realised just how many times he has changed his position. Also the Sita White stuff is sickening – he has such double standards – why should moral corruption be different from financial?Recommend
@ Chris – totally spot on.
Love Imran – he should be in charge of cricket but not the country.Recommend
@Afnan,
if he can not bring about a change, who can?
Or are you one of those half glass empty, pessimistic, all is lost mentality character who thinks nothing can be done?
Surely you don’t think the likes of Nawaz Sharif (mulq sawaro, qarz utaro scheme), Zardari (naam hi kaafi hai), Altaf Hussain (Karachi situation) and ANP (read Altaf Hussain)…. can bring about a serious change. Do you?
Isnt that what democracy is all about… choosing the lesser of the evils? Of course no one is perfect… but we have to choose who is better than the rest, and some one who has a proven track record of positive role in society, has no corruption or any other criminal charges against him (how many other leaders can you say that about?) and is visibly passionate about the country (albeit slightly dreamy coming across as impractical; but then so did Jinnah and Iqbal at the time) should always be chosen over the other so called leaders named above.
Plus, Imran Khan at least has the courage to own up to his mistakes rather than yapping endlessly defending indefensible acts.
This is not a biased article per se… but its quite harsh… needlessly harsh. But Imran Khan and PTI are in Pakistani politics and should be given the same treatment as any other political party/leader… PTI should not complain. Other leaders/political parties are called far worse, probably justifiable.
I agree with Qasim’s comments above… Imran was learning as a politician, and not selling his soul to whoever threw more money at him. He has always been dignified and honourable. He would have easily won more seats, even premiership of the nation, had he given up on his morals and sided with Musharraf. But he didn’t. I rather pin my hopes of bringing about change on him than any one else…
Who else is there anyways? Pls answerRecommend
A very good piece of writing.
I liked Cheat Pray Love article too. Keep up the great work.Recommend
pretty fair article, Imran Khan’s views on a lot of issues are disturbing, particularly his apologetic approach towards religious fanaticism. I remember reading an article earlier in which an author deconstructed his claim that extremism/terrorism is a product of US foreign policy. In all, i also agree he is clearly deluded and there is no revolution in the ‘real’ world that he can bring about.Recommend
Excellent article. keep up the great writing. Ignore the sad little boys who just wannabe Imran when they grow up.
Imran is honest but he has never been in power so that really is not a huge advantage is it?Recommend
Another rhetoric, without any strong arguments. Same old, lame opinion. Recommend
Mehreen,
Excellent write-up! Agreed 1000%
Exactly my thoughts on Mr. Khan.
Keep writing!Recommend
Only credible person can dictate the mob on the course of revolution. Revolution takes, thorough intellectuals (plural) and a highly politicized genuine intelligentsia, and unbiased and vibrant media, to come about. Imran lacks former one (even in himself) and Pakistan lacks latter two. So lets not be hasty for change, it will surly come, no matter how slow or fast it may be, let the environment conducive for it. Besides we have seen 4 revolutions earlier and believe me people don’t want it to happen again.Recommend
@syed imran hashmi…
I agree, he made a mistake. Which he owned upto, and his ex-wife, Ms. Jemima now takes care of her. You want to punish him for a mistake he made all that time ago, in his youth? Which now he has undone (as much as he can) ?
and… if he is not the answer… who is? Pls answer.Recommend
@maheen khan.
i accept his flaws and many critics have been writing about it.such things should be discussed.
but in the present scenario i dont think we have got a better option.if yes, then please write about it as well.
we dont want to know about problems alone.we needs solutions as well.
i hope some critics may give consideration.Recommend
Mehreen, an excellent write up. Agree with you on all counts.
Lets be fair, what you missed was that he still is the best looking guy around and charisma oozes out of him.Recommend
yes Mehreen khan I totally agree with you.In our country no one is honest to people including me. here everyone fights for their personal need and expectations. if Imran is honest than why he shakes hands with pervaiz musharaf, why he support in referendum, it is just because he wanted to become prime minister and when he had to lost his seat than he took help from musharaf. when musharaf rejected him than he became anti musharaf and joined APC. in 2008 elections he was the first one to boycott elections because he knew that he couldn’t win a single seat and tried to convinced the other parties to boycott the elections to give free hand to musharaf Q_league. when failed todo so, became against them. now he trying to use the religious sentiment but he will fail.Recommend
Few hrs back i argued the writer on her article and shockingly I don’t see my comments in the remarks slot. Something is fishy. I hope and pray the reason is my net or any other fault, not the tribune bias attitude :).Recommend
Even with his flaws, He’s still the best option to the revolutionary road.. Mehreen, try to be impartial next time please!!Recommend
Even with his flaws, He’s still the best option to lead the revolutionary road.. Mehreen, try to be impartial next time please!!Recommend
he is flawed but he is still the fabulous around!Recommend
Well maa’m you can express what you think of him but try to be a bit impartial when writing a blog. Yes Khan has his flaws, everyone has. Even all those revolutionaries would have you are hoping for but one thing we know is that he does not have corruption & filth in his DNA as all others around have.
Btw all this Khan bashing,that of some Sita White or his marriage, has gone too old. I have no problem if he brings ‘a foreign wife’ again. What has that to do with me or you, seriously ??Recommend
Imran Khan is very poor and not fit for politics rather he needs our financial help like zakat and sadqa. Why he doesn’t start chanda collection like he did for Shaukat Khanum Hospital. Politics is not his cup of of tea at all, he should start some charity work like Abdul Sattar Edhi, bravo Mehrteen, very good article, keep rocking! Recommend
Imran Khan is the product of 60′s schooling .Aristocratic but Liberal,western but religious,playboyish but honest,egoist but benevolent. Please try to characterise him as whole, only then one can truely reach to his whole persona. A schoolboy of an era when state was aided and run by West with an objectives to establish a East-meet-West model state to entice and influence the post-war geopolitical strata of southeast Asia.Therefore nomeclature of comming generation in elite schools was set on fusion of both cultures .But in the events of history this plan was halted and partially scraped (ironically this historic opportunity and placement was instantly picked up by Lee Kuan of Singapore)and the then great Bhutto of Indus came forward who at his first opportune revolted , smashed the on going well laid plan and inversed the economic drawing board order by marking the starting point initiate from the very grass root ‘People’, that he could not fully implement or effectively controlled but unluckly became the lone victim of his own urgency. But Jinni was out of bottle and till today no one has been able to lull it back but abhorrently produced bulk of streetsmart joyriders on its golden flyingcarpet . Among them not only stands but stands out Imran Khan.Never take his lane switching a mere default, we have already lost an able man A.M Asghar Khan due to his admirable but unwanted platonic mono-lane politico operandi. Let’s give him a space, youth is willing to give him lee way .The only big is, what are his plans ? Where on earth is his able human resource, if they exist then what have they chalked out? If not now, then WHEN? Recommend
I cannot even agree that he played his cricket without bias. I vividly remember when he declared Pakistan’s innings closed on the last day of a test match which was heading for a tame draw. The only reason he declared was that Javed Miandad was batting at about 280 odd runs and looked set to beat the 365 scored by Sir Garfield Sobers. That was the only reason and betrayed his hatred for a player greater than himself.Recommend
Dear Ms. Khan,
I am afraid you really haven’t done much research before writing this article. Just to correct you on a few points;
1) Imran’s mother asked him “not to marry a foreigner”, however it never says in the book or your article that he never actually agreed to it. Secondly and more importantly he got married in 1995 – 10 years after his mother died, so even if you were correct (which you are not) he clearly did consider her wishes in her lifetime.
2) Imran was not forced to admit about his child with Sita White. He was declared father in absentia. Being a lawyer I would have imagined you could at least highlight the difference between a judgement passed in absentia or contested case!
3) Both your points above are lame as frankly what Imran Khan or any other person does in his private life is their own business. You make a complete wrong analogy that Imran Khan makes fun of people who follow the west and doesn’t see the contradiction. Well let me remind you his children are Half English and he is not alone in making decisions about his children.
4) The best thing about democracy is that if you happen to disagree with his policies (which no opposition politician in the world can fully expose) – you don’t have to vote for him. But your reasons to not vote for him on the pretext of Recommend
@Sanya: And what exactly is his stand against women’s rights? I have nevver heard him say anything against women’s rights. Just because he is not liberal enough for you doesnt automatically mean he doesnt stand for women’s rights.
As for supporting the Taiban…he has went over this again and again and if you “liberals” (read: wannabes who are ashamed of being Muslim or Pakistani) really care to hear his stance with an unbiased point of view….look at some of his interviews. He has clarified this multiple times. Its about time we move on from the Pro-Taliban conspiracies.
He is in favor of negotiating with Taliban and coming up with a peaceful resolution. He believes military action brings more violence.
He has been quite right so far, and now it seems Mushrraf and the US government all have realized that the solution is going to only be able to come from tallks. Now only if we could just listen to Imran the first time when he speaks the truth.Recommend
Instead of Imran perhaps her choice would be MQM’S Altaf Hussain !!!Recommend
I guess she would perhaps suggest Altaf of MQM instead of Imran Khan ???Recommend
I get so frustrated trying to tell people exactly this, but shockingly everyone i know is just smitten with IKs rhetoric. We need real leaders like Nawaz Sharif, who are clean in both personal and public life, and who can arituclate clear policies on the challenges facing Pakistan. I hope people continue to ignore IK in upcoming polls.Recommend
I have often noticed people tend to expect higher standard of morality, skill and integrity from Imran Khan than other politicians. If other politician had indulged in same thing, then he would have been criticized less. That just show he is better than the rest. As for argument that he is not worthy of being leader of nation, he has not been tried and I do not think Zardari is worthy of being leader too.
He still has not stopped his social work. He just made Namal university and initiated flood relief fundRecommend
I initially thought it was written by someone from MQM, it reminded me of them. Anyway, Old stories come up with something new.
Imran khan is the only hope. Go through the list of people who can bring change in Pakistan and compare them to Imran Khan – you’ll get your answer.
We all have flaws and you don’t need an angel for revolution. Recommend
“Hey Imran’s Cyberpolice —GAWD…grow up please if I want to support a hypocrite, inept politican like Imran I would rather vote for Homer Simpson . Iftikhar Chaudhry defended the constitution instead of buckling under pressure from Mush…..we need a heavyweight not a playboy Recommend
@ Naushad… get your facts straight…
Imran asked Miandad to try and get closer to his target of 365 as quickly as possible, within the certain time, if he was close enough, he wud have allowed him to bat further. But Miandad was no where close, so he declared. A match that Pakistan eventually won, taking revenge on the defeat a few years back.
Imran never played for records… And neither should anyone else. Team/Victory/Country always comes first. Recommend
This is highly stupid and nonsensical. I wonder how many of you guys do what you promise your mothers and I cant understand the relation of his personal life with his political career. The writer must have had nothing else to write and intentionally gathered points to atleast make a 2 page article on him. I dont understand why people look at him so critically. Have you ever had the sense to look at what other politcians have been doing all their lives? How they have have befooled us? why him? only because we know that he is honest? Why do you expect this man to be an angel? He is growing as a politician.. yes he needs more cunningness and dishonesty to fulfil the criteria of ruling you blockheads!Recommend
Just 2 observations:
Hukka: Have people forgotten about Nawabzada Nasrullah aka Hukka. As a person and as a politician he was honest, principled, and consistent to fault. For 40 plus years he was involved in political affairs of the country. But as a politician and a political leader he failed miserably. Same could be be said about Asghar Khan. Imran Khan is a mere debutant compared to these 2 giants.
Floods: As an expatriate, it is nauseating to see that recent historically devastating floods have been almost forgotten by the people, media, politicians, by petty bickering – this debate about Imran including.
15-20 million affected people. One fifth of the country submerged. Colossal loss of houses, livestock, crops, infrastructure.
Honestly, read any news paper (or watch TV) and see how many stories or commentaries you will see except those of aid coming from outside. One does not have to agree or disagree with the above article to see that if there is one person who could have have made difference for these millions of these flood victims, and for the country, without doubt it would be Imran Khan.
I am sure he is doing some aid related work. Yet I am more aware of of what Edhee, Asghar Kahn’s relief organization, Oxfam, and others are doing on the ground as compared to what Imran may be doing. Whatever he is doing, unfortunately it is not enough. He has to take the floods as he undertook the building of Shaukaut Khanum Hospital – with relentless zeal, tireless non-stop effort over the years and vision. No primary school was small enough for him to visit and solicit money from children and even a few rupees were not too little.
In doing so, he did something bigger than building the hospital itself – building the civil society, and to some degree unifying and building a nation that could rely on itself, not a nation with a perpetual begging bowl in front of the world.
Whatever he is doing in this regard, it is probably too little and too late. Edhee, a very old man, is probably doing it it much larger level, and with much humility.
You think I am misinformed about Imran’s flood efforts? Possible, but I doubt it. I was not living in Pakistan at the time of Hospital project and there was no electronic media to speak of. Communing with family and friends in Pakistan was a monthly affair not a daily routine it is now. Yet I know a lot more about the hospital in details than I know of Imran Khan Flood Project. About a dozen of my nephews and nieces and children of many many my friends, grown up by now, were some of those primary school kids Imran inspired, recounted me their efforts with pride. They still are out there and would blindly follow Imran Khan in this effort.
Don’t convince me otherwise. Convince HIM.Recommend
Before commenting on the suitability of a potential candidate for “Hukmaraani – Leadership” we must understand a very simple way to judge him.
Hakoomat or Government is headed by a Hukmaraan – Head of Government who’s Hukm – Order reflects law of the land. In order to make sure that his Hukm or order is obeyed, he needs a Halqa or a circle popularly known as a team of like minded people to assist him in implementing his Hikmat – e- Amli or Strategic Vision.
How many people does he require to form a core team: five governors (include one for Gilgit Bultistan), four chief ministers, five teams of ministers for a federal and four provincial cabinets. Additionally, he needs federal, provincial and district level party heads. This is the minimum requirement to form a core team consisting of roughly two to three hundred people. A politician does not qualify to become a national leader unless he does not have three hundred people around him to assist him in the preparation of a strategic political vision, its implementation methodology and timeline.
Nawaz Sharif has started talking about a 25-year vision which is not new as the people around him are well known by their performance in the past. On top of that Pakistan does not have that much time due to the kind of mess it is in thanks to his admitted mistakes, acknowledged but uncorrected mistakes of other party leaders like him and known disappointing performance of their respective core team members.
Unfortunately, right from Pakistan movement to present day we focus on only “PARTY LEADER” instead of judging him by the people around him which is popularly explained as:
“A PERSON IS KNOWN BY THE COMPANY HE KEEPS!”
Our most popular excuse for the mess Pakistan is in is that the founder of Pakistan died immediately and his second in command was murdered within three years after independence.
BUT…WE FAILED TO LEARN THE LESSON THAT TWO MEN ARE NOT ENOUGH TO LEAD A NATION!!! A TEAM IS NEEDED TO CARRY ON THE TASK OF LEADERSHIP.
Instead of discussing Imran Khan, Nawaz Sharif, Asif Zardari, Chaudhary Shuja’at, Pir Pagara, Altaf Hussain, Asfandyar Wali we must focus on their capability, past performance and achievements of people around them. Actually the leader does not create a mess. It is his team that earns a good or a bed name for him.
Media owners have a responsibility to present only those politicians as national leaders who have their credible party members at provincial and district levels with a history of outstanding legislative and public service activities endorsed by local people and following in all the four provinces – Gilgit, Baltistan and Fata. ON TOP OF THAT ALL PERSONAL CHARACTER AND POLITICAL CREDIBILITY ARE TWO MAJOR YARDSTICKS TO CONSIDER AND INDIVIDUAL AS A LEADER. Recommend
I cannot see anybody to lead this Country except Imran.He has political sense,thoroughly honest,dedicated and loves his Country.He has no political experience is not a valid argument.Unless we give him a chance how will he be able to prove himself ??What he says makes a lot of common sense.Look at Shaukat Khanum.I would say it was not less than a miracle that he was able to collect all that money from ordinary people and establish such a collosal project.He was also able to collect over 200 crores for flood victims !! We really need this man to take over the destiny of this Country before it is too late.Recommend
All this points she pointed out how he is a taking a u – turn have been explained to us in the past.Recommend
your artical is totaly biased…but one thing you say that he is honest and that is one thing we do not respect in Pakistan….seems like you also do not do that..he is the only person I have known over the 30 years who has only given something back to Pakistan and not taken anything…Shame on us for not doing half of what Imran has done for Pakistan..it is easy to write articals just get out and do it…Recommend
Very right, Imran knows nothing about politics. He is just wasting time. He could have done much better in social sector but he is adamant to bring revolution with out any organized party and competent team.Recommend
Good article; all based on facts though slightly selective. First, life and politics are both about u-turns and changes. For instance, Pakistan’s founder Jinnah did a u-turn when he returned from England after leaving politics for years. His regretful sentiments about creating Pakistan in his final days can also be regarded as a u-turn. One of the reasons life and politics are described as unpredictable is because of the u-turns and uncertainties. But this reality aside, I believe Imran has not only matured in the past fifteen years of politics but has also grown in stature. This is however less because of his own endeavors and more due to the extreme failure of the country’s current ruling elite of politicians and military establishment. There is a nation-wide sense of disenchantment and people in general are looking for a change and Imran in this chaotic scenario seems the only voice and person who speaks of a radical change. I am not too sure however whether he has the guts to lead a revolution. I think he lacks that widespread and grassroot support to pull such a miracle in a deeply divided society like Pakistan. But I think he may succeed as an agent of change that Pakistan is already undergoing which is a major shift in which politics has so far been done in Pakistan; the callous and disconcerned attitude towards the needs and sentiments of the general public. People like him together with a vibrant media as well as a reluctant army to directly take control of the affairs means that Pakistan is already undergoing a revolution. Sworn political enemies are now talking about resolving their issues through dialogue rather than hurling insults at each other. Imran may and certainly is wrong in a lot things he does and say but he’s spot on when he says Pakistan as a state is unsustainable if the style of governance is not radically changed to reflect the needs of people. What happens in the future, no one can predict so let’s not rule out anyone, including Imran. Recommend
If Khan really wants to prove he can deliver results, then perhaps he should offer to manage and mentor the Pakistan cricket team in preparation for the 2011 World Cup.
Well saidRecommend
This country is facing more serious problems than just a bad performance of cricket team. None of the leading economies in the world have their cricket team. He DID manage the cricket team during his cricket career and he was the BEST Captain Pakistan has ever had. and yet you still want him to do it all over again just to prove to you that he can deliver?. This is just Pathetic..Recommend
Mehreen Khan, If you are Smarter and Cleaner Then Why Don’t You Come Into Politics and Show Us That You Can Achieve What Imran Didn’t!! Will You?? I Guess Criticism is More Convenient Than Doing Actually Welfare, That’s Why People Like You Chose It!! Recommend
Excellent article Mehreen…you have touched the the holy cow who is the darling of our taliban infested right-wing media…being his ex-voter (only `cause he was on the side of General Musharraf) i feel dissapointed with the way he has taken the rightest approach..
i also remember before establishing PTI he said on Zee News (if i recall correctly) he doesnt want to have a political party rather wants to have only a pressure group…but then went on to form PTI. another contradictionRecommend
@ Kashif Jan… why absentia then??if he wasnt the father why didnt he visit the place and got himself cleared?? Please enlighten us on that tooRecommend
“The PTI is run like a personality cult even after 15 years of its inception. Without him — it would be nothing.”
yes and PML-N, PPP and MQM are being run by democratically selected leaders rite?!
please give us a break and for God’s sake learn to be good in journalism before you write a piece like this…Recommend
Whatever, He is not corrupt like the generals and current politicians….Recommend
Salam,
A simple article not going into details why Imran did u turns. He supported the people who were on the right side e.g. musharaf when he ousted nawaz and co. and when THEY chose to go to the dark side like mushraf ousting chief justice, he parted ways with them.
That is character and morality, Sticking to your principles, not people. Maybe the author should learn something from him and stop attacking peoples personal lives.
Regards.Recommend
let me get it straight. Imran Khan has questionable morals (Seeta White), is a hypocrite (promise to his mother), flipflop’s politically although never seeming to gain anything personal or political from it so maybe he has the ability to correct himself, has no understanding of foreign affairs (compared to whom, Henry kissinger ?), favors dictators ( example cited to support the charge comes from his cricketing life and it wasn’t just Zia but the entire nation who wanted him back as captain) and some other goofy stuff that makes one thing clear to anyone reading this article: Ms Khan has really high standards for the pursuit of political life in Pakistan. I have a question for you Ms Khan, would you by any chance be looking into personal indiscretions of some of the other political stalwarts “cause i’m sure there is a book in there somewhere for you. I also enjoyed the utter nonchalance with which you skimmed over the minor detail of Imran being a “patriot and untainted by financial corruption” as if these characteristics can be found in every other political leader in Pakistan. NAME ONE. It’s not that your piece is completely devoid of any valid concerns but rather the adversarial tone of it. Imran may not be perfect but in a perfect world would you rather see the likes of him at the helm of affairs or do you have someone better in mind. Frankly I’d rather put faith in him coming of age politically than the politically astute (i can’t bring myself to calling them leaders ) characters acquiring traits that he already has, patriotism and fiscal credibility beyond reproach. For what good is all your political wisdom to the masses if it’s spent on stealing from them.Recommend
Imran says that Taliban brought justice in Afghanistan. What he doesn’t mention is that pushtoon make up less than 50% population of Afghanistan. Taliban were involved in a shameful ethnic war against non-pushtoon in the 90s. They closed down all shrines, banned the books of Maududi who is no liberal by any standards, and massacred 4000 Shias in Mazar Sharif in 1997-8. In that massacre, 9 Iranian diplomats were also killed and Iranian army was mobilized to attack Taliban; it’s no Zionist propaganda! Last month, he said that CIA is behind Alqaeda, so why are good taliban giving refuge to CIA agents? Such ridiculous statements can be expected from Munawar Hassan but not Imran!
In case of swat, people elected secular ANP who vowed to eliminate terrorism but Imran kept repeating that people support Taliban as they have brought justice. Give me one statement where Imran spoke against blowing up of schools, tailor and barber shops, or massacre of women constables, pirs and teachers. What was his stance on 600 blown up schools? Did he ever ask what the government was doing to protect people from these savages? Even when taliban voilated the Nizam-e-Adal regulation, he didnt lend support to the military operation. You call this leadership?Recommend
Imran whom I like very much but when it comes to politics he quotes sometime from RAND corporation, which make me wonder if he is Pakistani enough?Recommend
So can you please englighten who is the ideal politician for you, or the one who has never taken any U Turn in his career, or anyone who has done more for his nation even without coming into power ? or anyone upon which people can have more trust then him ? Unfortunatley when writers like you don’t have much content you try to hit the personal life.Recommend
1) My first reaction was to ignore this article and the comments of the learned lawyer-then it became obvious that the lawyer from Harvard needs to be put in her place
2) I am not sure who has given her the right (& space) to make comments on the personality of a person who is the only one in the dark history of Pakistan to achieve what others (including the writer) can only dream!
3) I see there are many other “immature” & “doubters” who joined the band wagon. They either agree or want to share similar opinion based on their IQ and mental development.
4) I do not have to prove the integrity (or the achievements) of the man in question, but please understand that he embodies the truth which Pakistan needs like oxygen.
5) We must help him win so that he can save what is left. The writer and her party surely need to take stock of the issues from a vantage point (if one is available)
6) The writer has attacked aspects of his personality which are well within his past and the mistakes which have helped him mature.
7) PTI is a party in its infancy and yet has affected in real terms the lives of many. Recommend
@Mahreen Khan, Why you are so biased? Don’t you think you have become very personal to Imran Khan in this article!! You forgot Imran Khan last 15 years struggle and refusal to Musharraf!! You also don’t know about Imran Khan’s role in the historical movement of Chief Justice restoration. I don’t consider Imran Khan a politician as for this job you must have qualities like corruption, dishonesty at all levels, wickedness, no principals, always do shameless compromises even on country’s interest and many more, but Imran Khan does not have such qualities!! Further, we don’t need so called politicians any more, we need a honest person like Imran Khan who is not involved in any type of corruption financial or moral since he formed his political party!!. People are donating more than Rs 1500 million for Shoukat Khanum Hospital every year and no one has reported misuse of a single penny out of that huge amount. He is honest and remember honest people always have a common problem that they always trust others, therefore he trusted many so called leaders / politicians and changed his path when he realized his mistake. People always learn from their mistakes and this is not a big issue. Would appreciate if you can utilize your abilities to highlight the shameful compromises and deeds of others who you think are better than Imran Khan for the country. Imran Khan is struggling without any compromises with other political parties and people are with him especially the young generation. I am sure people can take Imran Khan in to power….Inshahallah… Recommend
completely agreed! plus he doesnt represent THE Pakistan, even if he goes and sleeps in a jhuggi – he still doesnt! When he opens up his mouth in Pilotics, he sounds exactly like any other politician.
His charity work is amazing, this is what he is good at and this is what he should continue doing.
As for a revolution, its not a one man show in todays world, a nation has to be united on key points to bring about a revolution. Unfortunately, most people in Pakistan are so well immunised against the wrong that it no longer bothers them enough to do anything about it.Recommend
@Moise:
Imran Khan is very Pakistani and only Pakistani. Most other parties are very SIndhi, Balochi, Pashtun, Punjabi or Urdu-Speaking. Imran has never tried to gain popularity by dividing Pakistan.
We have leaders that are so proud of having duel citizenship. What a joke. Altaf has a picture holding his British Passport smiling. He reallly has nothing to be proud of.
Imran could have esily settled abroad and be living a nice life right now. He does not need to be getting “zaleeled” in Pakistan but he is doing it because he loves Pakistan and is very Pakistani.Recommend
Do you have an alternative? better than him?Recommend
Totally Biased !!!!!!!!!!!Recommend
Wow what an article Zardari must be happy with you
He must give you promotion Recommend
Name one person you know of right now who is worthy of leading the revolution? Yes he untainted by financial corruption and honestly at this point thats a lot for the people of Pakistan. He’s still a human being you know, you seem educated but you can’t cut him slack for marrying someone? Nobody cares if he has a illegitimate child or if he married a foreign woman or if his kids aren’t growing up in Pakistan. You should keep his personal life out of it. If he hasn’t done anything to hurt the people of Pakistan then thats good enough. And theres nothing wrong with the fact that its a one man show. Its better to have one non corrupt leader up there then a ‘democratic’ corrupt party.And everybody changes their mind, look at all the other politicians who seem to change their stance on important issues every week. Of all the people you could malign, you chose the one who least deserves it.Recommend
I don’t want to criticize your column, but in my opinion, it truly portrays the biased approach used to overshadow Imran Khan’s achievements. Let the audience know about your opinion about the current situation of Pakistan. Are you satisfied with performance of the current govt or you want to change? If you want to do the justice without being stereotyped, then be braved and please write down some columns about their corruptions and mismanagement as well. When you will do so, we would like to scrutinize the situation to form an informed opinion.Recommend
– You did have some valid points
– Even if we agree with the “flaws” mentioned by you in imran khans personality, can you mention/compare one leader who has lesser flaws then him?i think No
– Over All Biased Article i have to sayRecommend
why does everyone have to drag his personal life in, we would hate it if someone discusses ours!he was young at that time, so he enjoyed!why does everyone have to make a big deal out of it!Recommend
Alot said in this article is based on facts apart from Imran Khan keeping silent on Zardari’s election as president. Thats untrue as even then he was vocal against him.
Imran is not perfect, no one is saying he is, but atleast among the current leaders he is the best choice we have; in comparison see Altaf Hussain, Zardari, Nawaz Sharif, Chaudhrys; Imran is better than all of them put together.
U – turns are not uncommon in politics especially in Pakistan.
The sole reason he is not attracting big guns into his party are; no room for corruption. Most of the big guns are in politics to make money. If Imran is elected, he wont allow corruption in any form.
So being the way he is, fair and square, and his current party standing, even if we have fair elections, will he ever be elected? No; he is never going to have a party with majority in any province let alone the center.
His only and practical option is; the Army somehow brings him into power. Will he accept the backdoor? No. Should he? I think he should. That’s his only chance.
Mehreen Khan, please read this opinion and if you have time, and you disagree with my opinions, please do email me. Regards. AdnanRecommend
Excellent article…!
Imran Khan is a U turn man and he will always be in U turn, when ordered by his mentors.Recommend
Imran Khan will make a good city nazim, considering his leadership skills and project management experience. But Head of State? Noooooooooo way!!!!
We have already had too many experiments gone wrong in the past, we certainly don’t have the appetite for more.
Pakistanis, stop romanticizing the idea of a cricket hero, turned writer, turned philanthropist, turned politician managing the state.Recommend
A well intended person who has made his mark with the hospital and the University. As far as Pakistan’s politics is concerned, it is not his piece of cake as it is not of any other clean and well intentioned person. He is destined to either soil himself in politics or miserably fail therein. He should quit thinking about politics and work for a new revolutionary system for Pakistan –That of ‘Meritocracy’. If he can achieve it, he shall become immortal and our country a roaring example of success.Recommend
@ Dear All,
When we discuss a politician the most important things to remain focused on are:
Vision
Strategic National Priorities – Saying I will deliver JUSTICE is like saying Quran is our
Manifesto and Constitution. We must know how it will be done?
Clearly Defined Plan of Action
National, Provincial and District Level Trustworthy and Credible Teams
Transparent Monitoring and Reporting System
Visible Accountability Mechanism
Monthly, Quarterly, Half-Yearly and Annual Ministerial and Departmental Performance
Reports
Independent Panels of Post Performance Evaluation Judges
Past performance history both in and outside power corridors
WHERE DO WE GO WRONG?
We like and dislike INDIVIDUALS. We do not judge them in the light of point-to-point criteria
mentioned above. The most interesting thing is that most of the politicians in power and in opposition both have been repeatedly tried and tested in and outside the power corridors. Are they CREDIBLE and TRUSTWORTHY? Most of them are TURNCOATS and some of TECHNOCRATS have no TECHNICAL SKILLS worthy of mention. Majority of them are ON TV SCREEN POLITICIANS only.
There is no harm in giving Imran Khan a chance. Is there any harm in telling him to PREPARE HIMSELF for that BEFORE accepting the most difficult task of governing an ungovernable country? Is it wrong to point out his weaknesses? Is it wrong to ask him to form a core team of at least three hundred outstanding people like him from different walks of life at national, provincial and district levels who are willing to assist him before elections and after he wins?
THERE IS NO NEED TO GET EMOTIONAL! IT IS BETTER TO BE REASONABLE.Recommend
Well, Imran is the enigma he remains. It’s sort incredulous that a political wannabe that aspires to be a leader of this wretched country has not been able to clearly articulate what he stands for? Then from what you describe him as a sort of schizophrenic, undecided, U-turn ready individual than he fits perfectly in the Pakistan political chicanery.
Imran Khan for too long has allowed people to dictate who he is, what he stands for and what his vision is? There is an old adage “you can’t let anyone else do your selling for you”. Time has come when Imran shares what he really thinks on all issues important to him. Short of that I second your suggestion for him to restore lost credibility by returning to things he seems better suited for like Cricket.Recommend
Mahreen! Actually u missed the trick!
All those fact which you wrote on U Turn, proves that IK is maturing as a true Pakistani Politician.
Like,
MQM Hates Army Pre-1999, post 1999 They sits with Mushi.
PML(N) Loves Zia Hates Mushi.(both are dictator)
PPP Hates dictator, they bid farewell to Mushi….alot of U turn for all of them.
So all has a history of U turns…. So y not Khan Sb…
Go on give him a chance!!Recommend
Comparing Apples with Oranges……………………..Ms. Mahreen khan should review the lives of other so called leaders and than comment. I would recommend her to write without favourtisimRecommend
Granted Mehreen was a bit biased in this article, with the personal life bit about Imran Khan and all, but I do feel she has hammered her point home. She is absolutely right in describing Imran Khan as a words only man. Even though he clamors for democracy, his own party has never produced a man worthy of mention. And then there is his perpetual love for the Taliban, and insistent hate for the US. While those are personal matters and he entitled to feel what he feels, on a national level he ought to show a bit more grit and character come up with solutions instead of vitriolic statements. Also, the man needs to use his brain rather than his heart while making political statements, particularly where foreign policy is concerned.
The only problem that i have with Imran Khan, as I’ve mentioned earlier, is that he is too emotional to be a politician. But I guess there really is no harm in giving him a chance as well provided he leaves the confrontational approach vis-a-vis the US. After all, how much worse off can we possibly be than our present situation shows us?Recommend
Imran is having a laugh – he has no strategy or even passion in moving Pakistan forward, I remember inviting him to speak in front of a hundred British parlimentarians only a few months ago which he agreed and his followers in the UK messed that up for him – that kind of embarrased our organisation – the oldest British Muslim group – The Association of British Muslims which welcomes dialogue and debate internationally.
If only Imran was serious and mature.Recommend
Commenting on someone’s personal life is immature and childish. One advice to the writer.Recommend
An honest accountant can’t engineer a nuclear device. Similarly an honest Imran can’t do politics. I expected his political intellect to develop after an experience of 15 years, but sadly today there is not even a single political achievement he can boast about. Politics is about leading the nation and not to follow, and he can’t be called a leader for he has never led a political agenda in the entire tenure of his political career.Recommend
I wonder if Imran ever becomes PM we’ll have to officially allow promiscuity as otherwise it would be hypocritical. What is good for the PM should also be good for the public.Recommend
Lovely article!!!!!!
You forgot one thing madam!! At the time of his marriage he specifically mentioned that Ms. Jemima had taken up the muslim name of Hiaqqa or something of that nature.
Mr. Khan cracks me up….he is a better comedian rather than a politician. He really needs to figure himself out first.
All Hail Democracy!!!!!!Recommend
This article goes to show that having a Harvard stamp doesnt give you class. Imran Khan on the other hand is all class, giving inaccurate information and trying to pass them on as facts is the gist of this piece of prejudiced writing.
Politicians change opinions because the politiics is a fluid and dynamic field, so your opinions on issues might change but your core values what you stand for should stay the same. Imran wants to see a better Pakistan and like most of us and in that he felt that the commando could be a good option he wasnt and Imran has learnt his lesson as have all of us who supported him, does this make all of us unfit for politics.
Ms Khan what are your leadership credentials how many revolutions have you lead, how many revolutionaries have you met to know what it takes to be a leader, my guess is none. So you cant possibly judge what a good leader is all about.
To the rest of those Imran haters and wannabes you wish for a life like his, you wish for that respect and adulation, you people dont know what pride is you have been beaten down into the ground that you dont know what it is like to stand up. Imran Khan is the pride of this nation, he has single handedly earned more respect for Pakistan than the writer and the politicians in this country combined. Recommend
Wow – the PTI at least has an organised cyber wing ready to write hateful comments for anyone who dare point put any inconsistencies in their darling leader.
How can you honestly say this article is biased? “Although I respect and admire Imran Khan for the cricketing hero he once was, for the philanthropist he still is and for the revolutionary leader he aspires to be, his personal and political life is rife with grave contradictions.” Sound like bias???
And even at then end Imran’s qualities are acknowledged “Although, he may be patriotic, untainted by financial corruption and charismatic, Imran Khan is not worthy of leading the revolution.”
Instead of seeing this as an opportunity to engage in some self reflection and dialogue it is disappointing to see the Imran Jiyalas resort to the same language, accusations and blind defence of their hero as Zardari’s pets do for him.
This shows that PTI is no different from the other losers around. I am a fan of Imran’s but wont be voting for him and certainly wont be recommending PTI to my friends after seeing the comments posted by his supporters.Recommend
An excellent article – all the facts are there. No preaching or moralizing.
Cant understand why all these Imran idolisers are so uptight – not much of a democrat if he cant take questions about his record.
He is a cricket hero and a good charity icon – he is not Che or Khomeini – no revolution is led by someone so confused.Recommend
Well said – finally someone who can articulate Imran’s real worth – great cricket legend and wonderful social work but not fit to lead a nation with numerous problems.
the arguments that the others are no better – well that still does not make Imran fit for revolution.
And guys – when you accuse writers – who have clearly been writing about the governments flaws many times – you just look desperately unable to counter with the facts. The article is totally free from any negative comment or opinion – it just stated the fact. Sita White was a fact – if it isnt his daughter then why did Imran do a photo shoot with Sita and Tyrian in hello Magazine???Recommend
I got an email fwd telling me to write nasty comments here on an article they described as biased and disrespectful against Imran”. I have read the articile and think it highlights facts about Imran which are negative but it is not biased and it is not disrespectful.
Look guys – just grow up. The type of comments you are making are actually making Imran’s supporters look like a bunch of emotional idiots who cant take anything but praise for him.
He does have flaws and needs to address them before he makes promises about changing this country.I think he is the best guy comapred to the others because he is honest – but please let’s not indulge in these idiotic campaigns to write nasty comments about anyone who writes what we dont like.Recommend
@ Nina Hussain how is Sita White related to any of pakistan’s problems how is it even relevant to our issues, it shows the myopic mind of the writer in sifting through his personal life because she had nothing noteworthy against Imran Khan.
I would have loved to counter facts had the writer presented any, countering fiction is rather difficult. The article is full of opinions and perceptions that the writer has not facts Imran has time and again denounced the Taliban and spoken out against Zardari and his corruption at the time of him being elected to the presidency, but the writer and people such as yourselves wouldnt bother researching these facts.
Please try to understand the issues and then comment reading HELLO and agreeing with someones fiction just isnt enough of an argument.Recommend
@ Shehreyar no one is uptight if you have an opinion an intelligent one please share it with everyone so that we may also be enlightened but if the brunt of your argument is Imran and his personal life and that he should spend it answering to every tom dick and harry who has a insatiable desire for gossip then you are mistaken.
You claim that he is confused what is he confused about please give examples, the work of fiction that is writen by the honourable barrister has been countered by most people who have commented if you have anything new kindly share with the rest of us.Recommend
decent article to start with but it would have done better without the criticism on his personal life. In the end it says: “he should offer to manage and mentor the Pakistan cricket team in preparation for the 2011 World Cup. It would be a test case for his promise to tackle mismanagement and corruption. If he succeeds — well, that would be a mini revolution in itself.”
However he did manage and mentor the team in 1992 and proved himself. Then he moved on to bigger and better things like Shaukat Khanum and NAMAL College. I would say the natural evolution would be something like Ministry of Education or Health not a demotion to manage a cricket team! How many people in our 18 Million strong army of critics of anything or anyone good have managed to do these things consistently without any government support??Recommend
@Hasan:
He WAS promiscous at one point in his life. He has moved on, people change and they discover what they should/should not do in life. He is human, he is no longer promiscuous. Just the fact that all people can obssess about is his past, tells us that he is an awesomeeeeee man and a wonderful leader.
P.S- He does pray five times a day though….we can make that a law if you would like ;PRecommend
@Sheheryar: He is very democratic. He has always answered questions about his past, and if you actually ever watched his interviews you would know he has eexplained himself before and how he came back to Islam, and how he became who he is now. What he and all his supporters have a problem with is people obsessing over him. Leave him alone already and go find something he has done to bring harm to Pakistan and argue based on that. He doesnt need to constantly explain himself and apologize for his past, especially since he has explained himself already.
I would like to see Altaf, Musharraf, Zardari or any of his clan, and Nawaz answer questions as oplenly and as personally as he does.Recommend
@Nina Husain:
He has mentioned Sita White was his past, but he does not have to discuss her constantly to prove anything. As long as he is not taking part in anything of that sort currently, he does not need to explain.
And this Hello magazine you talk about…you need to find out if this is an authentic magazine. Sita White is dead, and Khan has never done a photo shoot with the two of them. This can easily be photoshop. Yes, Sita is his daughter, but no he has not done a photo shoot. Recommend
Last hope for pakistan .Recommend
@ Faiz Ahmed…wow you sure are an impartial observer when the writer voices her perceptions of Imran as facts Imran and his supporters should indulge in self reflection, and when the supporters voice their perceptions they are writing hateful comments!!!!!
Lets be fair we are an emotional lot Pakistanis and might get carried away but i believe the majority has responded in a very mature fashion and has not written anything hateful. Thanks for being a fan of Imran, but PTI isnt a restaurant that you would recommend its a political party which has a manifesto and if people understand and like what it has to offer they will join and a word of advice get off the fence and join someone anyone, this country has a lot of problems and we can use people who do more and talk less.Recommend
@Amna:
True, but other youngsters need to be given the same chance at being promiscuous and then becoming pious if they wanted to. You can’t allow one thing to the leader and different to followers. All have the same rights, correct?
If Imran has done something himself, he can’t prohibit others from it without being a hypocrite.Recommend
the article from Ms khan seems to be a personal discontent instead of being a neutral analysis.sad to see such bias from our literates.Recommend
@ Dear All,
We respect the views of Khan’s admirers and their right to judge him the way they like. Is there anything wrong with revisiting the past mistakes, learning from them, correcting them, having a plan for the future, building a team of credible social, economic, political, military and diplomatic experts and preparing for a leadership role to put the derailed country back on track? A sincere friend and admirer of Imran Khan will always advise him that.
It hurts to see that BOTH the groups; those who like Imran Khan and who do not are trying to turn this Tribune Platform for sensible comments into Mochi Gate through allegations and counter-allegations. Isn’t it wise to comment like educated and well mannered Pakistanis? Everyone can comfortably do that if he goes through my earlier two comments and comments of those who are neutral and seriously concerned Pakistanis. I will be first person to be glad to see Imran Khan become the Prime Minister of Pakistan but Pakistan cannot afford to see another leader fail. THIS IS WHAT EVERYBODY NEEDS TO KEEP IN MIND before posting a comment.Recommend
The Best Review On Imran’s PoliticsRecommend
I dont believe that you are blaming Imran khan how could you say ? I am not a member of Imran khan’s Tahreek E Insaaf but point is to be revealed but politically not personal affair shouldn’t to be enclosed . We may have difference obsessions and difference deliberations but why are you so getting into personal issues and you have also said that Qazi Hussain who is sympathize to Taliban . i think every one has its own view .Any way fair reporting oath to be conducted . Anyhow thanks for article.Recommend
Imran may have had his U-turns and inconsistencies. To Err is Human.
i) However, I, as a taxpayer and a Pakistani do not feel that he owes me an explanation for the humble donations / collections that I had made for his hospital project as a school going kid. His work speaks for itself.
ii)In a country where most politicians are scampering to save their reputations and eligibilities by forging degrees and bribing their ways into assemblies, here we have an honest Oxford graduate, whom, even the Britishers do not hesitate in making the Chancellor of the University of Bradford. ( http://www.bradford.ac.uk/chancellor/about.php)
Ofcourse he does not match the corrupt, feudal, technocrat (read Bureaucrat), tax-evading, educationally ineligible, mentally challenged and perpetually accused-for-crimes profile of Pakistani politicians capable of orchestrating paid Million marches, dime-a-dozen revolutions and faddish Charters and other such soap operas.Recommend
I cannot agree more with everything you said and I say it as a former PTI party member. Recommend
*Very True ! Excellent Article i m fully agreed ! IMRAN KHAN AS a NGO person Good player but Politics its TOUGH field. Imran not fit to like deomcratic politics!* Recommend
I only want to say that we do not need politician to save and stand Pakistan as a respectable state. only we need is an honest, fair and bold leader like imran khan.As i know imran khan ,no doubt is very honest and he is not greedy like our politicians. almost all of our politician are corrupt, they can do politics to save their own dominance. we do not need such politics which is implementing in Pakistan. Recommend
Baised article. Changing one’s stance on things is not a bad thing. The writer does not provide arguments if the changed stances were for a corrupt reason. Imran Khan is not a Taliban supporter. He has never said that. He has condemned the terrorism probably much more strongly than Mr. Nawaz Sharif. And Sita white issue …. what the heck …. a writer from Harvard should know that personal life is best left “personal”.
This article is of the level of a 9th grader. Nothing more.Recommend
Bravo Mahreen!!
Imran is nothing but a media gimmick…can’t understand one thing that without having a single seat in the parliament why he is given so much ‘media attention’… … Mr. Imran have sympathizers in the intellegencia…
Mr.Khan try every possible thing to grab media attention…like raging a war of words with Altaf Hussain, etc to gain popularity of anti-Altaf people…but useless. In Karachi all gangster join PTI and started ‘ghunda gardi’…Only answer one question….since the inception of the party Mr. Khan holds the post of Chairmanship with him…if his party is different from others why other members can’t be selected for the top post Recommend
Cant understand the knee jerk defence of Imran – the article is a great analysis and all of you who think an illegitimate daughter is irrelevant when you stand for office of the PM of an Islamic Republic are just as naive or dense as Imran is.
Look his personal life is relevant because he is lying about it – it goes to his integrity – or lack of.
A great article – keep up your brave and honest analysis.Recommend
I am very disappointed with the PTI – it really is run like a “personality cult”.
Well done for exposing Imran’s nonsense – this is just an ego trip for him.
It is sad that such a great hero of ours has ended up this way.Recommend
Its a bitter truthto accept but the article is 100% spot on – these are the facts about Imran and we cannot be clouded by our adoration of the cricket star he is.
The signs are always there – Imran’s inconsistencies are signs of what is to come should he ever be elected. I hope he never gets into office – that will truly be the end of hope itself. Recommend
@ Inqalabi..I usually wouldnt respond to a comment such as yours but i cant help myself your insights into Imran and his politics are truly bizarre…”Imran has sympathisers in the intellegence” where did you get this piece of information!!!!!!!!!!!
What he said about Altaf still holds true, no body in Pakistan had the guts to say he did and he said it so i dont see what your point is?
What proof do you have of gangsters joining PTI, i havent seen any if you have kindly give proof otherwise such inane statements reflect on you rather than Imran and PTI.
Is the chairmanship of a political party the only issue bothering you about Pakistan….really?Recommend
@ Shahid Khan..its not a knee jerk reaction its trying to educate people who seem to know little about Imran and his policies but still like to talk as if they are experts!!!!!!
The article is the writers perceptions of what she thinks Imran is all about its not an analysis by any stretch of the imagination. I am sorry its not relevant for me because it is his personal life, what he did in his past with his own money not goverment money not taxpayers money certainly not your money so really focus on whats actually confronting this nation.
Again as much as you might enjoy the juicy details of someone elses personal life most people dont, Imran is the best choice for this country and people who dont vote will try to bring him down because people dont really want the things to change. Recommend
@ Ghauri… Imran hasnt just achieved glittering heights in cricket he has given the nation of 170 million a cancer hospital which no goverment since 1947 managed to build so please put things in perspective if you hate him for some personal reason atleast be man enough to accept the good he has done.
If not him then who, give an alternative who is capable of giving hope to this nation any ideas Mr Ghauri ill be waiting for your response!!!!!!!!Recommend
@Hassan Sadiq: So your argument is that we should applaud Imran for building a hospital and winning a world cup and hand him the keys to the country on that basis?
Why dont you and your PTI cyber wing answer this question: what does Imran Khan stand for? Yes he is anti corruption and honest – fair enough – but so is my driver – doesnt mean he can also be my accountant does it?
your Imran-fans need to stop acting like emotional jiyalas and accept that Imran stands for very little. He needs to think through his policies and you all need to mature.
Why dont you answer the points made in the article? Why is PTI run like a personality cult? Why does he support the Taliban? Answer that! I am waiting for your reply.Recommend
Wow – the PTI cyber army really is in overdrive. The nasty comments and low blows are pretty pathetic. Totally agree with @Shahid Khan.
I like Imran because he is honest and has a lot of charisma. I really do not think he can run the country though. And just comparing him to the losers and looters in power now – well that is such a weak argument. Surely the standard cant be that low can it?Recommend
Its a balanced piece but I do think his personal life is irrelevant.Recommend
@Hassan : no one hates Imran Khan – but why cant we criticise him? You want to stifle all free speech? Yes he built a hospital and won the world cup (by himself – remember?) but that is not the same as running an entire country.
Imran is a confused person – a patriot and honest yes but not a leader.Recommend
An excellent piece of writing – why cant people accept Imran has these inconsistencies?
@Hassan: totally disagree with you. Recommend
I adore Imran Khan – he is hot and totally awesome. I did not know about the stuff in the article – looked it up and it seems very well researched. I dont care if he has a love child but then I live in the US – here these things might wash – but they would be relevant so I disagree with @Shahed Ali.
Personal lives of public figures are relevant because it shows he is willing to tell lies.Recommend
@ Sehar criticise him but with information, i mean for gods sake can we get over his personal life is really that the criteria for being the PM of this country, Bill Clinton is regarded as one of the better Presidents in recent times and we all know what he did and that too in office. What Imran did in his youth shouldnt be the point of discussion in any article, let alone an analysis on his political career.
No he didnt build the hospital by himself and didnt win the world cup alone either, but ever wonder why it hasnt been done before him and hasnt been done after him, the state of Pakistan couldnt do what one man did with the help of this very nation.
What are your views about how a country is run and consequently Imran is not fit to run it, i would like to know so that atleast we can debate on the same level.
Imran is honest and a patriot and yes he has made mistakes but confuused in one thing he is not.Recommend
Imran is a total waste of time – all promises and nothing more. He is just as much of a hypocrite as Nawaz and Zardari. Just because he is not corrupt doesnt mean he is a brilliant leader. His vice is not money its women – so whats the difference?Recommend
@ Sara Mughal …people accept that he made mistakes no one denys that but if changing stances is the criteria for this analysis then we should call the Quaid E Azam confused as well since he was all for hindu – musllim unity and then decided to support the two nation theory.
What exactly do you disagree with?Recommend
@ Asim Bajwa…yes the PTI army has gone crazy, its completely besides the point that we could be in the right also but lets just ignore that and continue to criticise for the sake of criticism.
Imran might not be the best politician to have lived but we are confronted with certain choices out of those choices we can continue with the same lot or try something different in the hope that it might allow for a change in the way politics is conducted in this country.
The standard my friend is truly low look around you!!!!!! I believe that Imran could learn about foreign policy, economics anything but can you learn to be honest, can you learn to be a patriotic Pakistani i dont think so. Honesty and Integrity is what is needed at this point in time everything else can fall into place.
All those who complain about lack of leadership stand up and be counted join Imran give your views to improve things dont just sit on the fence and heap scorn on someone who is actually trying to do something to change things in this country. I dont have the option to leave this country so all i have is the chance to change things for a better future for my children otherwise the alternative is very predictable and for all to see.Recommend