Where from here?

There are no two opinions as political parties across the board shun violence, are united in exterminating terrorism

It seems nobody is listening. Political polarisation is at its zenith and is dangerously coupled with impulsive reactions. This does not bode well for the country, and is in instant need of a political correction. The rioting and vandalism witnessed in the wake of PTI chief Imran Khan’s arrest on May 9 is in need of a thorough investigation. Arson and attacks on sensitive installations, and desacralising of national monuments is reprehensible and condemnable. It is necessary to bring the culprits, their instigators and facilitators to book. This is so because the country is on the tenterhooks and shocked to the core. The Special Corps Commanders’ Conference, presided over by Army Chief Gen Asim Munir, was on the spot as it resolved to go after all those involved in the nefarious activities, and try them under relevant laws, including Pakistan Army Act and Official Secret Act.

There are no two opinions as political parties across the board shun violence, and are united in exterminating terrorism. At the same time, the role of the armed forces is held in high esteem and any malicious campaign to undermine their sacrifices is contested tooth and nail. This is why the PTI too has called for an independent probe under the Chief Justice of Pakistan, as it vehemently denies any role in the weekend riots. The wheat must be separated from chaff. The common denominator is very much there, and the need of the hour is to erect a regime of confidence over it, and nip the unscrupulous elements, if they are in the rank and file of politics.

Pakistan is passing through an existential problem, and the situation is compounded with multiple crises in the economic, political, constitutional, and security domains. This warrants some astute leadership from all shades of public opinion, as well as stakeholders. The chief justice has once again shown restraint and reiterated his call for the parties concerned in deadlock to resolve their differences over elections, so that the court does not have to take a call on politics. Let all concerned take a step in retreat to make room for reconciliation.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 17^th, 2023.

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