KARACHI:
Many are flabbergasted as to why our leaders try to dupe the public by promising to transform this poor country into a Scandinavian heaven. They seem to be impressed with form rather than substance which means that they are easily attracted to things that looks shiny.
They forget that appearances can be deceptive. The truth is that when reality reveals itself, the European way of living may not work in a country like Pakistan. Hence our leaders need to avoid deceiving their supporters, and forfeit the attempt at selling a rather farfetched reality. Our leaders need to motivate their followers to work hard and capitalise on the immense treasures that God has blessed our country with. Distributing BISP and health card may be a short-term fix, but it is not a permanent solution to alleviate poverty. For that, we need long-term strategies geared toward encouraging businesses and creating jobs.
Motivating people to work hard, instead of resorting to shortcuts, may prove to be fruitful in the future. If the leadership is honest and true to themselves and the country, people will automatically listen and follow them. History tells us that our people have always gone out of their way to sacrifice and donate for the country in the time of need, but for that trust needs to be earned first.
Raja Shafaatullah
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, January 12th, 2021.
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