Daily Times

Sir: Recently during an interview with CNN when the host said that because of the prevailing situation in Pakistan 33 percent of the population wanted to leave the country, Prime Minster Gilani replied abruptly, “Why don’t they leave then?” While responding to such an important and critical question, he should have responded more sensibly and wisely. Educated people are upset about being in Pakistan, owing to meagre professional opportunities and rising terrorism. Pakistan is facing the worst kind of brain drain. The reasons for people leaving Pakistan and those who have not but are prepared and willing to do so are myriad. Poverty, joblessness, lawlessness and the energy crisis are a few. Business, big and small, has been badly affected.

As the chief executive of the country, Mr Gilani should answer questions thrown at him, instead of shrugging off the matter as if he does not care. There is already a strong impression abroad that Pakistan is a rich government of poor people. When asked that question, his disappointment about the situation in the country should have shown in his face. It speaks about his ability of governance and his sense of responsibility.

DR ALFRED CHARLES

Karachi