KARACHI:
Most of our politicians display great wisdom and sharp-sightedness during their time in opposition. However, they never put this wisdom to work in time to prepare for the future. Despite being aware of all the issues, they never have an immediate plan to resolve the problems after they gain power. The argument that power can corrupt people stands completely true in the case of our politicians.
The moment they are in power, all their wisdom vanishes because they are swayed by the greed for power and fail to distinguish between right and wrong. Opportunists and sycophants quickly surround them and isolate them from reality. Even visionary leaders like Zulfikar Ali Bhutto fell prey to this. Jalaluddin Abdur Rahim, a Bengali socialist, played a pivotal role in the formation of the Pakistan People’s Party and was appointed to Bhutto’s cabinet after the election. However, on one occasion when Bhutto failed to show up on time, Rahim expressed his agitation and left the gathering with a few other ministers. Bhutto’s loyalists distorted the words of Rahim, which reflected poorly on Rahim’s behaviour. Instead of realising his mistake, Bhutto had Rahim arrested by the FSF.
Unfortunately, this was not one or an isolated incident, in fact, bullying tactics run deep in Pakistani politics. In their pursuit of power and influence, politicians deviate from their original purpose and resort to violent tactics to maintain their power. They make irrational decisions, which harm the people and the country at large. The public must raise their voices against this, otherwise, our society will remain entrenched in a multitude of problems with little relief.
Raja Shafaatullah
Islamabad
Published in The Express Tribune, May 7th, 2022.
Like Opinion & Editorial on Facebook, follow @ETOpEd on Twitter to receive all updates on all our daily pieces.
