After evading repeated summons and wandering the wilderness for the last few months, former spy chief Lt Gen (r) Faiz Hameed has roared back. In a statement recorded before the ever-so-pertinent Faizabad sit-in commission, Mr Hameed dismissed claims of plotting against the then government by noting that he had, indeed, held conversations with the Tehreek-e-Labaik Pakistan’s leadership, but on government’s direction. Although former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and ex-interior minister Ahsan Iqbal have already appeared before the panel, the ball can once again be seen in their court. They alone could clear the air about the specificities of the business undergone that day.
If such a development had occurred at their behest, the wrath of Article 6 automatically applies. However, a powerful assertion from someone who used to be part of the most powerful clique has gone on to strengthen the independence and credibility of the judiciary, which was until recently, under a lot of stress for its alleged protection of Mr Hameed. The now retired Lt-Gen is up for accountability but is this really the time to be sirening monstrosities of the days gone by?
With the elaborate exercise of national elections literally around the corner, shouldn’t all energies be invested in ensuring political franchise? By asking all relevant parties to set their eyes on the ball, Daily Times, in no way whatsoever, wishes to walk away from the accountability of the high and mighty in all institutions. Perhaps, once the tide is settled, the new government could foresee the establishment of a body similar to South Africa’s Truth and Reconciliation Commission that pulls the drapes off all secrets and backroom dealings so that the entire nation goes through a collective moment of reflection.
The last eight decades have been nothing more than twisted tales of madness and intrigue. Without a shadow of a doubt. But today, the Holy Grail demands us to get to know the contenders better, question their manifestoes, and juxtapose their performances with their promises. The rest can wait for another sunny day. *