The remark by a former Indian ambassador to Pakistan that Pakistan’s prime minister was powerless; what matters in Pakistan, was the army, could be an eye opener for political junta and people.What shocked nation was the insult of the office of the prime minister of Pakistan. Notwithstanding the poor performance of politicians, we have a functioning parliament, an independent judiciary, and a free media. Yet somehow we have failed to project Pakistan as an effective and responsible democracy where civilians call the shots. Contrarily, we continue to be labelled as an establishment-run country.Without major inputs from the economy and defence contours, a country’s foreign policy cannot be shaped. These two key areas have to have strong inputs in its formulation. As such, Pakistan is no exception. But, perhaps, unlike recognised democracies, our boys from the establishment are more visible. Here one recalls former army chief Gen Kayani chairing a meeting at GHQ with key federal sectaries in attendance. As a result, visiting foreign leaders have also made it a point to follow this drill. Such deviations from time-tested protocols paint a poor profile, virtually placing us in the banana basket of countries. One had hoped that for the first time having completed a full five-year term of civilian rule, some healthy traditions like the rest of the world would become part of our official practices but alas that was not to be. As a result, we continue to have the image of a fragile government incapable of taking independent decisions.
Zia-ur-Rehman
pk.shafaqna.com
