The latest episode of our democratic system promises change and doing away with the unfortunate practices of the past. Imran Khan’s first speech reinforced this message and was lauded by almost all segments of our society. Things have gone back to the usual. From forging alliances with extremists to attracting political support through financial inducements — we are witnessing the return of familiar instruments.
The ever-elusive Naya Pakistan is yet to make an appearance, although many of us are still holding our breaths. PTI’s leader Jahangir Tareen is running from pillar to post, trying to woo independent candidates so that PTI can form its government in the Punjab. Tareen is loved by all and sundry within the PTI, despite being disqualified by the Supreme Court from holding public office.
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Objections have also been raised that Tareen continues to woo seat holders despite having no official role in the PTI. In the given circumstances, independent candidates are playing an important role. Their support is vital for the winning coalition but the manner in which the wooing is taking place is hardly the way to rest our democracy in the right direction.
The electorate clearly voted for clean politics and governance. Imran Khan’s supporters have high expectations from their leader; and this is why it is even more important for the PTI to be different from its rivals. We hope that once the process of government formation is over, the PTI government will bring in changes to electoral laws and procedures to make this process more transparent, rule-based and fair. *
Published in Daily Times, August 2nd 2018.