Daily Times

Not too long after the Pakistani nation was bombarded with news about the Sharif family regarding the Panama leaks, came another news about another Sharif. Only this time it was about the only mainstream Sharif who lives up to his name: General Raheel Sharif. Time and again General Raheel Sharif has proven himself to be one of the greatest army chiefs we have had and the numerous accolades he has received is a testimony to his great services to this country.

Recently, the army chief dismissed six army officers on corruption charges: a rather rare story. There have been few talks about how this was a strategic move very rightly timed, but all theories aside, what this event means for common Pakistanis is nothing short of hope and positivity amidst all the negativity.

I, like most other Pakistanis with no political affiliations, look upon matters concerning our country with concern and sincerity, unadulterated with selfish personal interests. After being constantly exposed to agitating news about the lack of dignity and excess of audacity of the famous ‘Sharif’ family, who also happen to hold the reins of our country, General Raheel Sharif’s decision came as a ray of hope that there is still some good left in this land.This decision is a live demonstration of leading by example. When Raheel Sharif called for across the board accountability, he set an unprecedented example by beginning the cleansing from his own institution.

Corruption is a matter discussed quite often in Pakistan, yet when it comes to taking action against it, no efforts are seen whatsoever, and quite frankly most of us have become accustomed to this; therefore, General Raheel Sharif’s decision came as a pleasant surprise. It was a treat to hear and read about this rare practice of accountability in Pakistan. The very optimistic side of me is in fact almost too hopeful that more such surprises would follow, while the less optimistic side of me is afraid that this might just be a case gone and forgotten as time fades away the impact of the Panama leaks.

Whether this is actually a start to a better and less-corrupt (if not corruption-free) Pakistan cannot be said. However, for now the admired army chief has yet again given hope and reassurance to a disappointed nation that all is not lost yet.

The blogger is currently pursuing her MBA in Marketing at FAST School of Management. She takes great interest in arts, fashion and social issues, and is a strong supporter of empowering women through education and financial independence.