Next government to face mammoth challenges

Author: Imtiaz Hydari

Regardless of the protests by some political parties, it is abundantly evident that the people of Pakistan have made a historic decision – Nawaz Sharif’s call for “vote ko izzat do” is exactly what is required by the new opposition including the PMLN- Accept the results, support the victorious party and unite in taking Pakistan forward.

This is no ordinary result – Imran Khan’s relentless struggle against the curse of corruption has touched a cord with the ordinary voter across the length and breadth of Pakistan. There was a common desire amongst its 200 million people that “something has to give” and “change is a must”. We cannot afford to have “more of the same” and status quo will only spell more doom and gloom.

Change means, a different direction – one based on realistic understanding of the challenges ahead and requires courage to implement painful decisions with a view to setting a different course. Failed economic policies cannot be simply substituted overnight,and endemic corruption cannot be eradicated by mere sloganeering even with the best will in the world. It will take time and we cannot have “patience” in short supply.

Read here:Imran needs a strong National Assembly line-up

Let it be understood there will be little or no change in the lives of the common man with immediate effect. The new administration will have to educate the masses that an era of austerity is required to get our house in order. If people genuinely trust those in power, they must be prepared to bear the immediate consequences of a new direction with a high dose of patience.

It is my firm belief that one of Pakistan’s major problem is its divisive society – on provincial and sectarian grounds, between liberals and conservatives, and more importantly the gulf between have’s and have not’s. In trying to out- do the other, false promises are made, enmities are fanned and intolerance is encouraged. Quaid e Azam Mohamed Ali Jinnah united the Muslims of India with a call for unity, faith and discipline – Tabdeeli and Naya Pakistan is all about making Jinnah’s dream a reality.

Educating masses on not just what but also why certain decisions are being taken.
Uniting the masses at national level. Speaking the language of one Pakistan in which all federating units are treated without discrimination.
Creating a peaceful law and order situation with zero tolerance for any form of extremism which includes land, transport, timber or any other form of mafia
Eliminating waste in all forms – ghost institutions and ghost workers, unnecessary perks,
Dealing with the curse of corruption in a manner that treats all regardless of power influence or wealth without any distinction.
Promoting transparency and meritocracy as fundamental principles of the Governments Governance Framework.
Creating a peaceful, trusting environment, where no one is above the law, no private militias are allowed, violence is condemned and the gun culture is dismantled, minorities are protected and the concept of mob justice or jirga power is opposed forcefully.
Tabdeeli will be evident when citizens take responsibility – forming ques and learning to wait for their turn regardless of status or position, no wall chalking, no breaking traffic rules whoever it might be, no littering and dumping garbage on streets, when begging will not be necessary, children will be schooled and the system of education will produce thinking, creative, questioning students and new champions will restore our lost glory in squash and Hockey and in other sporting events,but most importantly, every Pakistani, resident or expatriate will walk with his/her head held high because of the stature of his leader. These are some of the signs to look out for if we are tracking Tabdeeli
It does not take rocket science or brain surgery to forge a sound financial plan with short and long- term objectives, that focuses on reversing the failures of the past ,so a new Pakistan emerges from its current state of despondency. The voting masses have high expectations on delivery of the promises made to them. Imran will have to ensure that a clear distinction is made between his ministers whose job will be to produce results which are measured against their KPI’s,and advisers, who help to formulate policies, but always keeping a finger on the pulse of what the people want, through regular and open interaction with their elected representatives.
A word about foreign policy – the thorny issues of relations with India and America will have to be resolved with consensus. There is no doubt that solutions to international challenges can only be articulated in a positive give and take spirit but without compromising self- respect and integrity. Imran’s personal standing and stature is such that he will negotiate at least not from a position of weakness.
Lastly, the famous words of John F Kennedy, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country” been more applicable to Pakistani’s.