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Political biryani
It is deemed to be injustice with poverty stricken masses, if they are not facilitated with biryani during political activities. Certainly, it has become a custom, but delectable as well, to serve people in large gatherings with food, rather displaying their public works progress. Sardonically, this tradition has firmed its roots in less politically educated regions of the country.
Political entities prioritize serving food, especially biryani, to their voters to gain sympathy and empathy collectively. Moreover, the biryani memes are adequately viral on social media platforms. Although, the biryani is not the de facto cause that lures illiterate people down.
Today the general election is taking place in all parts of the country; similar candidates are standing in the polls who have enjoyed the stint of power for years sans any public service. More specially, the political embodiments in Sindh province belong to the affluent class, landlords. Their primary work to sort out issues has largely remained dissatisfactory, except intruding into legal affairs illegally. And election campaigns are too expensive for a common man to participate in.
Last year, the Sindh province suffered a major setback in flash floods. More than $10 billion infrastructure had diminished, in the whole of the country. Politically elected representatives remained missing in the crisis. However, people still prefer those notorious fundamentals to represent them in the upcoming government.
Respectfully, the general pattern of voting based on adult franchise has, undoubtedly, dangerous facets. Those individuals, who don’t know the power of their vote, would easily get intrigued into politically fake agendas. It is high time for suffering souls, of Sindh or Pakistan, to declassify the potential of their representative for public welfare, based on past actions, before election ensues, rather towards the taste of political biryani.
SAJID ALI NAICH
Khairpur Nathan Shah
Elections 2024
In a last-ditch effort to make a convincing case to the masses, Tuesday saw political parties try every card in the book to spell a convincing end to their election campaigns. Canvassing stopped when the clock stroke midnight. But even when the campaigning was in full swing, sentiments appeared dampened.
The political landscape leading up to the elections witnessed a lack of enthusiasm from smaller parties, leaving the contest to appear as a three-way fight. These elections are being held in the shadows of fear on account of deadly attacks by terrorists in the KP and Balochistan.
Although the situation improved dramatically towards the end, there was an undeniable difference when compared to the last electoral exercises. The PML-N, being perceived as the “favoured” party, held an advantage, particularly in areas where local politics play a significant role.
Meanwhile, the PPP sought hard to regain the ground it lost a decade ago. Forced out of the competition, the PTI aims to capitalize on public discontent with the status quo and position itself as the alternative choice. Predicting the outcome of these elections is still very challenging as each party has its strengths and weaknesses. Keeping in mind the track record of the country’s development, PML-N hails advantage on rival parties, the PTI claims to have an appealing factor among the youth as it has no remarkable plans implemented during rule in the Center and the KP. Punjab is the main battle-field as the path to power in Pakistan lies through Punjab. The province holds a significant number of seats in the National Assembly, making it a decisive battleground for political parties. The PML-N is aiming to break out of central Punjab and expand its influence in the north and south. The PPP, on the other hand, seeks to regain lost ground in the province.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Democratic resilience
Pakistan’s democracy faces challenges amidst populist rhetoric and vested interests. Criticism from politicians, parties and media, including figures like former PM Abbasi and Bilawal, often undermines the credibility of general elections. However, recent measures taken by the government and military signal a positive direction for Pakistan’s democratic process.
Understanding the mechanics of Pakistan’s parliamentary system in contrast to the presidential system of the United States is crucial. Unlike the American President, who contests a national election, Pakistan’s Prime Minister is elected by members of Parliament. The Prime Minister serves as a local representative, subject to removal through a vote of no confidence.
Efforts to address issues such as horse-trading and external influence in politics through measures like holding MPs accountable via signed petitions from constituents can further bolster democracy. Drawing lessons from international examples, such as the UK’s Committee on Standards in Public Life, Pakistan can institute mechanisms to combat corruption and enhance accountability.
Proposals for democratic reforms in Pakistan include empowering local governments and restoring a balance of power for effective checks and balances within the parliamentary system. These reforms aim to steer Pakistani politics away from populist tendencies towards a more robust and accountable democratic framework.
RIZWAN GHANI
Karachi
Time for change
Pakistan is on the brink of a significant change in its political landscape as women strive for increased involvement. A recent report indicates that a total of 65,915 candidates have entered the political arena, with 3,235, or 4.91%, being women. Notably, Sindh leads with 5.39% female candidates, followed by Balochistan with 3.14%.
Though seemingly modest, this represents a noteworthy step towards gender equality. Among the 234 PTI candidates, twenty are women who have actively secured participation despite challenges such as losing their poll symbol. While the numbers may appear small, they hold the potential for meaningful impact.
These figures afford women the opportunity to navigate essential political manoeuvres. Moreover, it is imperative for politicians to not only increase the number of seats available to women but also afford them the respect they deserve within their communities. Indeed, women’s participation in general election seats represents a significant avenue for empowerment. This step is not just about fairness but about fulfilling the basic requirements of a progressive and inclusive nation.
SHAHJAN BASHIR
Turbat
Voice of Mithi
Mithi, the beautiful and clean city of Tharparkar, is known for its hospitable and caring people. New tourist attractions are being developed in the heart of Sindh, allowing people from around the globe to appreciate the intricate threads of Sindhi history which is inherently poetic and delightful.
Pakistan’s largest coal deposits are located here, positioning it as the country’s future energy hub. Mithi holds significant cultural importance as the centre of Hindu culture and the oldest religion. It is rich in cultural heritage and is renowned for many things, including Bhitt Ghadi.
But the allure of Mithi doesn’t stop there. Alongside its natural beauty, the land is adorned with peacocks, enhancing its aesthetic appeal. Witnessing a dancing peacock during the rainy season is a sight to behold, offering a glimpse into the wonders of creation. The people of Mithi hold their own significance as they continue the traditions of Sindh, breathing life into this otherwise barren land.
Two Sindhi singers, Allah Bachayo and another unnamed, have been performing at Gadhi Bith for the past decade. This demonstrates the strong attachment of the people to their traditions. These singers used to soothe the hearts of tourists with their harmonious voices which resonated deeply and left a lasting impact. As a Sindhi myself, listening to the poetry of Shah Abdul Latif made my heart bleed with its profound words and melodious voice.
However, it is disheartening to see that these talented singers are using basic instruments – a plate and a wooden stick for one, and a dhol (drum) for the other. Yet, despite their limited resources, the fusion of these instruments creates enchanting music that brings peace to the soul. These are the hidden talents of Sindh that often go unnoticed on the global stage.
ARISHA IRSHAD ALI
Karachi
Box letter
Plastic influx
In this vibrant world, my initial observation centres on the pervasive presence of plastic. From everyday household items to commercial products, a myriad of objects is constructed from plastic. Baby diapers, milk bottles, kitchenware and various utensils – every nook and cranny of our homes is filled with plastic material. Even in the marketplace, whether purchasing small or large items, plastic bags are handed out freely by shopkeepers. Restaurants contribute to the plastic influx by serving beverages in plastic cups. Upon reflection, it becomes evident that while there exist international and national norms aimed at controlling plastic consumption, their implementation is often lacking. The question arises: is the fault primarily on the part of institutions or are the public equally accountable? It is crucial for us to ponder over this dilemma, as most packing and carrying materials are crafted from plastic. Unlike naturally occurring substances created by the Almighty, which decompose swiftly and offer benefits post-decomposition, human-made plastics turn our world into a garbage repository instead of maintaining its natural splendour. Collectively, we must contemplate and take decisive action, each individual contributing effort to transform our world from a garbage hell into a healthy heaven.
UMAMA RAJPUT
Sukkur
