WHETHER or not these are election days, political temperature always remain on higher side in Pakistan yet events of last few days especially the allegations of former Speaker Ayaz Sadiq as to how IAF Pilot Abinandan was freed have pushed it to new heights with fears being expressed about political anarchy in the country — a situation we can least afford.
It is unfortunate to see damning statements being made both from opposition and government sides. Ayaz Sadiq made an irresponsible statement regarding a closed-door meeting. The entire nation knows that we released Indian pilot from the position of strength, after shooting down two IAF fighter jets, as a peace gesture as also acknowledged by DG, ISPR at a press briefing. Hence, there is no reason for Ayaz Sadiq or his party to stick to the statement that has no basis. It will be better for former NA speaker to apologise and withdraw the statement. The opposition is treading a dangerous path by attacking state institutions. They must revisit their course. They have the right to criticise PTI government and its policies but involving state institutions is something that people of this country will never tolerate. Simultaneously, government ministers must also act with maturity, responsibility and stop labelling opponents as traitors or vagabonds. They are as much patriotic Pakistanis as others.
The ruling and opposition parties must understand that current tirade between them is only benefiting our enemy which is conspiring to stoke instability in Pakistan. Our country is already faced with multidimensional challenges including those on economic front. The recent surge that has been seen in Corona Virus cases is also worrying. In this backdrop, sanity demands that political temperature is toned down by initiating a serious dialogue process. PTI and opposition parties must sit together, sort out their issues and also formulate a consensus roadmap to take forward the country economically. For this, saner elements from all parties will have to come forward and play a leading role. This is a must to achieve desired political stability in the country.
