2023 has marked an appalling resurgence of terrorism in Pakistan. This uptick dates back to NATO’s evacuation from Afghanistan, leaving behind huge weaponry and Pakistan’s subsequent appeasement policy. The appeasement policy allowed for the unhindered entry of dismounted militants. These militant groups re-established themselves in tribal areas, consequently energizing their sleeper cells across the country. Since January 2023, 82 terrorist attacks have occurred, resulting in the loss of numerous innocent lives. Mounting terrorism is a significant concern with the upcoming general election. This escalating law and order situation poses a threat to fair and peaceful elections, potentially overshadowing their validity.
On the economic front, indicators show external debt amounting to 128.1 USD billion, coupled with an incapacity for debt repayment. Pakistan, grappling with a battered economy, can ill afford disturbances in the electoral process. The global scenario paints a grim picture of belligerence and hedging. Ever since the Hamas-Israel war, American alignment with Israel’s unwarranted interests is notable. The American attitude towards Pakistan’s atrophied economic condition and compromised security can be described as hedging, despite Pakistan being a U.S ally. However, propriety demands an active American role in securing vital interests in Pakistan.
Discussible, too, is the political instability and polarization following the general elections. Political parties have been unable to reach consensus, even on the appointment of an election date, dragging the Supreme Court into the political quagmire. General elections in Pakistan are scheduled for 8 February 2024, amidst high accusations of political gerrymandering. All parties are adopting aggressive stances, resorting to tacky publicity stunts to gain power. In this challenging scenario, the role of the military becomes multi-faceted: managing pre-election security and maintaining it on election day.
The upcoming elected government faces a host of issues, from crippling terror to rampant inflation and deepened political polarization. Reports indicate Pakistan is engaging in negotiations with these militants to resolve the issue. However, expecting any positivity from such ruthless elements is naïve. Urgency lies in purging the terror-hit areas by taking drastic measures. The duty to ensure regional peace rests upon the Afghan regime, deterring militant groups from operating. A common cause of ongoing terror resurgence has been strategic laxity post-military action, allowing militants to reclaim their settled areas. Pakistan needs to craft an effective terror-purging policy to prevent the resurgence of militancy. Additionally, political sensibility is paramount to extricating the country from electoral uncertainty and other challenges.
—The writer is a contributing columnist based in Gujranwala.
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views expressed are writer’s own.
