Why Zardari understands Pakistan's problems better than Imran Khan - Aakar Patel

[Shahab Saqib]

In my opinion the writer, Mr. Aakar Patel did not cover the problem from correct perspective. The reason for splitting of Pakistan into two after 24 years was not that they followed the three points of fighting "corruption, black marketing and nepotism" but in fact, when the QUAID died, those who took the office did not give any importance to his words. The bureaucracy and elite followed the path of their interest and The Army added another stigma of injustice and inequality in the East Pakistan. If we had followed those words of Quaid at that time, then we would have a lot better situation today. Imran Khan, if really followed his words today, will bring prosperity into the country. Secularism in governing the country may only cause division and increase in the number of religious extremists. Those who really believe in the religion ISLAM, never think of harming or disrespecting the minorities. The only reason why Islamic republic of Pakistan should have Muslim President or Prime Minister, is that if a Muslim is really a Muslim then he keeps equality and balance among the rights of all the portions of society. His religion bounds him to do so. Europe's secularism brought development to them but destroyed them socially. We want economic development and social integrity. And Islamic republic ensures us that.

[Narayan]

In my opinion the writer, Mr. Aakar Patel did not cover the problem from correct perspective. The reason for splitting of Pakistan into two after 24 years was not that they followed the three points of fighting "corruption, black marketing and nepotism" but in fact, when the QUAID died, those who took the office did not give any importance to his words. The bureaucracy and elite followed the path of their interest and The Army added another stigma of injustice and inequality in the East Pakistan. If we had followed those words of Quaid at that time, then we would have a lot better situation today. Imran Khan, if really followed his words today, will bring prosperity into the country. Secularism in governing the country may only cause division and increase in the number of religious extremists. Those who really believe in the religion ISLAM, never think of harming or disrespecting the minorities. The only reason why Islamic republic of Pakistan should have Muslim President or Prime Minister, is that if a Muslim is really a Muslim then he keeps equality and balance among the rights of all the portions of society. His religion bounds him to do so. Europe's secularism brought development to them but destroyed them socially. We want economic development and social integrity. And Islamic republic ensures us that.

SUMMARY

Imran defines a welfare state as one that gives free medical treatment, free education, free justice and unemployment benefits, as in Europe. He doesn’t seem to understand that Europe’s progress is the result of its secularism. The individual’s religion is irrelevant. This equality is the basis of their welfare state. Change cannot come to Pakistan without reorienting its state, its army and its culture.

This is Pakistan’s only real problem. It’s settling down can come only from a change in ideology, not a change of governments. Building an ‘Islami falahi riyasat’, even by well-meaning saviours, is likely to cause more confusion.

In that sense, Zardari is a better leader than Imran because he understands the problem. He wants to normalise the state, soften its ideology.

Unfortunately, Pakistan’s army and media vetoed his no-first use and open trade policies with India. Now its courts are working on getting him out.

I think at least in this regards, Mr Patel is right ..