Articles and letters may be edited for the purposes of clarity and space.
Change of loyalty
The recent spate of defections of independent candidates to PML-N serves as a poignant reminder of the fluid and opportunistic nature of Pakistani politics, where alliances are forged and broken swiftly in the pursuit of power and influence. In the aftermath of contested elections, such manoeuvres have become increasingly common, highlighting the precarious balance of power and the quest for political dominance. The concerns over PTI’s ability to retain its winning candidates who contested as independents have materialised as several have now shifted their allegiance to other parties.
The recent defections of independent candidates highlight the intense political manoeuvring as parties vie to strengthen their presence in the National and Provincial Assemblies. This trend underscores the persistent challenge political parties face in maintaining unity and coherence post-election, often struggling to align members with the party’s vision.
Such shifts not only reveal a pursuit of personal gain but also signify a lack of allegiance to the supporting party during electoral campaigns, potentially destabilizing governing coalitions and impeding policy implementation, thus compromising the democratic process. The ease with which candidates switch allegiances raises significant doubts about the integrity of the electoral system and the sincerity of elected representatives, eroding public trust and perpetuating a culture of opportunism and patronage in Pakistani politics.
The recurring cycle of defections undermines the accountability of elected officials and perpetuates instability in Pakistan’s political landscape. To navigate these challenges and realize the nation’s democratic potential, it is imperative to address the underlying factors driving these defections and reinforce mechanisms for party discipline and accountability.
Upholding the principles of democracy and good governance is essential to counteracting the negative impact of defections, ensuring a stable and thriving political environment. In this context, the presence of party-based politics should preclude any space for independent candidates, offering a path toward stabilizing the country’s political system and fostering public trust in its democratic institutions.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Unsung heroes
In a world where everyone is engrossed in his respective occupations, driven by the need for financial sustenance or simply to make a living, there exists a group of individuals who dedicate their time and effort without any monetary compensation. These unsung heroes work tirelessly for the benefit of their communities, contributing to the betterment of society. While money is undoubtedly a necessity, these individuals find motivation beyond financial gains, driven by a deep sense of purpose and a commitment to serving others.
Numerous foundations and organizations operate on both national and international levels, focusing on community welfare. Thousands of individuals selflessly volunteer with these organizations, embodying the spirit of altruism. Sindh, too, has its share of remarkable individuals devoted to the betterment of society.
One such exemplary figure is Mr. Ali Bux Tunio, who, along with his friends, founded the Sindh Educational Organization (SEO) in 2020. SEO stands out as a student-led initiative aimed at supporting underprivileged students in their educational journey.
Over the past four years, SEO has steadily expanded its network, attracting over 5000 students from various universities and colleges across different cities.
The collaborative efforts, consistency and determination exhibited by SEO members in working for the community are truly commendable. SEO engages in a range of activities, including organizing awareness sessions for various tests and exams, offering career counselling, advocating for education in rural areas and providing free online classes for university entry test preparation. The organization conducts mock tests, delivers results and awards certificates to participating students.
UROOJ SABA
Khairpur
PPP triumph in Sindh
The Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) secured a significant victory in the 2024 Sindh elections, reaffirming its strong presence in the province. Despite encountering challenges during the campaigns, PPP candidates managed to win the trust of the people and secure a substantial number of seats once again. This success has reinstated Bilawal Bhutto as the leader, with high expectations for his commitment to the province’s welfare.
The election campaigns were fiercely contested, testing the resilience of PPP candidates amidst various obstacles. However, the unwavering confidence of the people of Sindh in the PPP resulted in their re-election to power. This victory reflects the continued belief in the PPP’s ability to address the province’s needs and concerns.
Bilawal Bhutto, as the torchbearer of the PPP, now faces the responsibility of fulfilling the expectations of the electorate. There is optimism that he will earnestly work towards the betterment of Sindh, leveraging his dynamic and charismatic leadership to implement progressive policies.
This victory not only underscores the enduring popularity of the PPP but also serves as a call to action. It emphasizes the party’s need to diligently address the aspirations of the electorate and view campaign challenges as opportunities for introspection and improvement.
The upcoming tenure presents a golden opportunity for the PPP to make a lasting impact on Sindh’s development and well-being. Prioritizing governance, transparency and inclusivity will be crucial for the party, along with addressing pressing issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure.
However, it is vital for the PPP not to become complacent. The electorate’s trust is not guaranteed, and the party must consistently deliver on its promises to maintain its position in the future. The next election cycle may present even greater challenges, requiring the PPP to remain proactive and dedicated to the province’s needs.
NAVEED WASSAN
Karachi
Box letter
Phone distractions
Students often bring phones to class seeking entertainment, but this habit distracts them from class activities and undermines their focus and understanding. Phone use during class has become a widespread addiction, with about 72% of teens feeling compelled to respond to messages or social media notifications instead of engaging with class material. This dependence on phones not only diverts students’ attention from the teacher but also impairs their ability to comprehend the lesson. As a result, students prioritize phone use over learning, leading to a decline in academic performance. Moreover, using phones in class not only affects the individual student but also disrupts the learning environment for others. Even a single notification sound can disrupt the flow of the entire class session. To mitigate these disruptions, it’s crucial for students to refrain from using phones during class and for teachers to enforce strict phone policies. By minimizing phone distractions, students can better focus on their studies and engage more effectively in the learning process.
ZAHEER SIRAJ
Awaran
