As political turmoil and uncertainty affect the corridors of power, Pakistan’s seasonal revolutionary and fiery cleric Dr Tahirul Qadri is back for another round of political demonstrations. The chief of Pakistan Awami Tehreek (PAT) has returned to add pressure on an already fragile government by demanding action against those responsible for the killing of PAT workers in Lahore by the police. Recently, a sit-in was held on the Mall Road with families of the victims protesting the lack of justice and accountability, three years after the event. The protest was also attended by the leadership of the Awami Muslim League (AML) and the Pakistan Muslim League Quaid (PML-Q), among others. The Model Town tragedy resulted in the death of at least 14 workers, injuring over a hundred. Despite the blatant abuse of power, no action has been taken against the accused despite the judicial commission report holding the Punjab government responsible for the killings. Dr Qadri has been demanding that the government release the report and a special bench be formed under the supervision of the LHC CJ to settle this matter. Qadri also attacked the Sharif brothers and accused them of being politically corrupt and guilty of obstructing justice, warning them that their rule over the country was close to an end. The timing of Qadri’s return is opportune, especially given that he has made previous visits whenever the government has been under pressure. Still we cannot dismiss Qadri’s demands, as they are real. In addition, Qadri’s angst is symbolic of a larger, chronic issue in society, that is, the lack of speedy justice for the common citizen. At a time when the SC verdict is being touted as the turning point in Pakistan’s history, it is worth asking the question about what has been done for the average citizen to enhance his access to justice. Having said that, Qadri should ensure that his protests remain peaceful. We totally support his cause but cannot help asking as to why his quest for justice is periodic and timed around political developments. In fact, Qadri may be advised to consistently follow up on this case. His followers and their families need justice and they should not appear to be pawns in the alleged power games being played by Rawalpindi-Islamabad syndicates. * Published in Daily Times, August 18th 2017.