Politics is navigating in alien territories. The heat of it was evident as the military, in a presser, expressed its dismay for unnecessarily dragging it into politics. Former prime minister Imran Khan, who is out on the streets demanding general election, went on to comment over the upcoming change of command in the Army leadership, and remarked that the coalition government wants to play foul for its vested interests. Though he did not name the army top brass, in particular, his intention to put the riddle of appointment under the scanner and associate it with political strings was unwarranted. His stature as a popular political leader demanded of him to act more responsibly, and not to bring under any debate a professional state organ, and that too when the chips are down in politics, and polarisation is at its peak.
The PTI leadership must reflect on it in all humility, and come up with a narration that is more responsible. Dragging the feet on what has been said, and unduly trying to recast it in finer vocabulary, is an exercise in futility. Imran Khan is on record having urged his followers to respect and uphold the dignity of the Army as an institution, and not be a part of any smear campaign. Now his own slip of tongue is a point of concern. It would have been wise of him if he had desisted from bringing up a constitutionally mandated procedure under debate at a public gathering. Political browbeating is admissible only to the extent that it should not come to infringe values or ridicule or bring into question public office bearers or their conduct. The political leadership across the board must spare a moment to ponder over it.
Pakistan these days is passing through a critical phase. It is bogged down with a natural calamity which has left more than 35 million people in distress. Inflation at more than 40% along with a depreciating rupee has made lives miserable. What is needed at this juncture is responsible politics, and that too without any misgivings.
Published in The Express Tribune, September 7th, 2022.
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