Pakistan is a country with rich history and a bright future because of its abundant yet untapped resources, but it is often caught between the promise of democracy and the reality of corruption. As a nation, we have always worked towards becoming a beacon of hope for the world, but have we truly taken necessary steps towards sustainable progress? I believe “no”.
Despite being a democratic country, we have failed to ensure that our system is a true representation of the people. The term “democracy” has a subjective meaning. For me, the essence of democracy is that in this system, people are counted, not weighed. Over the decades we have seen the rise of capitalism and the influence of foreign capital, which has resulted in exploitation and inequalities.
When our democratic system becomes an industry, it turns into a nightmare for the nation. The whole system becomes a game, in which capitalists enter the country, invest their money, and take control of the government. Like any good businessman, they want maximum return on their investment, and for that, they put the country’s developmental processes up for sale.
In other words, the offer “development” procedures at a price. But what happens when profit margins cross certain limits? The answer is simple: goods and services become so expensive that they are out of the common man’s reach. If someone argues that these capitalists shouldn’t act this way, the response might be, “Why not?” If a person or company spends their money, no one can stop them from seeking a return on their investment, can they? It’s like a vicious cycle, where the rich get richer and the poor get poorer.
It is time for us to take action and demand a better future not just for ourselves but also for our children
For decades, the influential – or should I say “the country’s pseudo masters” – have opened their coffers not just for horse-trading and buying votes during the elections but also for securing substantial staff and securities that could ensure take them to the power corridors. For them, it is yet another investment. And how do they get the return of, as well as return on the investment? Correct! The burden of these expenses falls on the people, or in business terms, “the consumer”. The situation gets worse when there is a flight of capital, which significantly affects the country’s integrity.
My dear readers, there’s still hope. By the grace of God, our country still exists. All we have to do is learn from our mistakes and make sensible decisions to reshape the system in a way that it truly benefits all. It is not just about giving vote to a candidate. It’s about choosing a leader who will fight for our country’s interests and ensure that every citizen has equal rights regardless of his social status.
Therefore, we need to ensure that our vote goes to a person or institution that will protect our country, offer fair prices to the people, provide true justice, promote free trade, and ensure equal human rights for all citizens. We need to demand pure democracy and strong democratic institutions. We also need to ensure that everyone has access to free education and medical facilities, and that inexpensive justice is available to all.
We need to ensure that our vote goes to a person or institution that will protect our country
As we know, election activities are underway in the United States. Looking at the current scenario, one can’t help but notice that people are raising funds for election expenses even in one of the biggest democracies of the world. This is the very reason no government there impacts the consumers adversely, as politicians there raise money beforehand instead of “investing” in the electoral process first and then expect to get returns with ‘interest’.
It is time for us to take a cue from this and, as citizens of an Islamic democracy, make informed decisions about our country’s future. We need to stop worshipping idols and give our votes to those who will defend our country’s sovereignty and dignity.
With one hand we need to stop foreign capital dictate our country’s fate, and with the other plug all revenue leaks. Also, we have to prevent capital flight and instead use it to build strong institutions that benefit all citizens.
Yes, Pakistan is not on the right path for sustainable progress, and it never will be unless we make significant changes. It is time for us to take action and demand a better future not just for ourselves but also for our children. Let’s make a change today!