Architect of 18th Amendment: Honouring the icon of federalism

Mehergarh celebrates Senator Raza Rabbani’s contributions to democracy, devolution.

ISLAMABAD:

No chauffer-driven Mercedes, no security protocol. The man drove up in his Toyota Corolla and found his way to an unmarked seat in the front row.

The event marked the completion of a week-long leadership course on Democracy and Devolution, organised by educational institute Mehergarh. The audience, comprising young men and women from across the country, had gathered to pay tribute to the discreet gentleman who happens to be a legislator and the architect of the 18th Constitutional Amendment – Senator Raza Rabbani.

The students were given Senator Rabbani’s latest book, “A Biography of Pakistani Federalism,” as part of the course.

“He has led a principled life in politics and always remained resolved to serve his country with dignity,” said former senator Dr Abdul Malik, while speaking about Senator Rabbani’s contributions to Pakistan.

Talking about the impact of Senator Rabbani’s work on Balochistan, Malik said: “Partly due to the inability of the corrupt government in Balochistan to implement the 18th Amendment in its true spirit, and partly because of the volatile security situation, the Baloch people are still unaware of what dividends they would gain from it.”

He added, though, that Rabbani alone could not turn Balochistan around.

“It has to be a collective effort involving everyone – from the military to the establishment,” he said.

“Our nation is blessed to have leaders like Raza Rabbani who set a precedent that political parties could rise above party lines for national interest,” said Senator Afrasiab Khan Khattak.

Speaking to The Express Tribune, veteran journalist and human rights activist IA Rehman said Rabbani was one of the leaders who emerge through a political process and provide an able leadership to the country.

“Leadership is not about a single man, it’s a collective effort and Senator Rabbani is an integral part of the endeavour,” said Rehman.

The audience was introduced to Rabbani’s school life and early political career on the occasion.

The hosts – social activist Dr Fouzia Saeed and renowned director Sarmad Sultan Khoosat – conducted an informal interview with Senator Rabbani, who reflected upon the significance of the devolution process and its benefits.

Senator Rabbani thanked the organisers for the honour and expressed faith in the young people who were learning about democracy and devolution. “This will bring long-term benefits for democracy in the country,” he said.

A booklet titled ‘Mian Raza Rabbani: A National Hero’ containing articles from his friends and colleagues, his writings, his legislation and other material was also launched at the occasion by Mehergarh.

Published in The Express Tribune, April 1^st, 2012.