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Facing challenges
With the election of Shehbaz Sharif as the 24th Prime Minister of Pakistan, the nation finds itself at a critical crossroads, teetering between hope and concern. The February 8 elections revealed the fractured political landscape of our country, leading to a prolonged period of uncertainty in government formation. As Shehbaz Sharif now assumes power amidst a backdrop of massive expectations, it is undeniable that major challenges loom large on the horizon. Chief among these challenges is the precarious state of Pakistan’s economy.
The nation’s financial stability hangs in the balance and it requires urgent and decisive action, and the expiration of the previous IMF agreement in April only exacerbates the urgency of this situation.
The new government must engage in immediate negotiations with the IMF to chart a course towards economic stability. Failure to do so will exacerbate our financial turmoil, which will not only lead to massive consequences for the populace, but also increase public unrest and dissatisfaction with the new government.
While fiscal discipline and economic reform is imperative, it must not come at the expense of the already burdened masses. Any austerity measures must be handled with empathy and consideration for the plight of a common man. The government must prioritise policies that alleviate the hardships faced by the most vulnerable segments of society, ensuring that the pain of economic restructuring is shared equitably.
Securing valuable seats in NA and vast majority in the KP as an even more potent political force following the February 8 elections, it is safe to expect deep divisions within Pakistani society. Rigging allegations by opposition parties also pose a significant challenge to the legitimacy of new government. It is incumbent upon the constitutional institutions to form a Judicial Commission to probe the rigging allegations for the stability and continuity of the political system.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Highway
peril account
The inconsistent driving behaviour of large tankers and loaders on highways poses a noteworthy menace to road safety. These gigantic vehicles regularly involve persistent overtaking manipulations, displaying a flagrant neglect for the space and security of other vehicles. The courageous confidence exhibited by these truck drivers, thinking they can seamlessly navigate through traffic, is unsettling.
The laxity exhibited by these truck drivers is not only alarming but also a potential stimulus for accidents. Their apparent lack of reflection for the safety of others intensifies the hazard of mishaps.
The boldness with which they possess road space demonstrates a concerning apathy that represents a peril not only to themselves but to everyone partaking the thoroughfare. Urgent evaluations are required to tackle and rectify this treacherous behaviour for the overall welfare of road traffic.
AREEBA ALTAF
Larkana
Evolution of political landscape
Feb 8, 2024 elections have revealed the changing political culture of Pakistan. In these elections, people have demonstrated their increasing distrust of traditional politics which is based on religious and dynastic politics. The vote bank of religious and dynastic parties has declined. Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazal (JUI-F), which is a major religious party in Pakistan, secured only a few seats in the national and provincial assemblies. Awami National Party (ANP), which is the Pashtun nationalist party, succeeded in securing only a single seat in Khyber Pukhtoonkhawa (KP) provincial assembly.
Jamat-e-Islami’s (JI) vote bank also has reduced and it failed to secure any seat in the National Assembly. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and Pakistan People’s Party are the mainstream parties but both of them also failed to gain the majority in the National Assembly. Many seasoned politicians like Rana Sanaullah, Javeed Lateef of PML-N, and Qamar Zaman Kaira of PPP lost their seats. Maulana Fazal ur Rehman, leader of the JUI-F, lost his seat in his hometown.
Siraj ul Haq, the chairman of JI, also lost his seat. Many of the new contestants, belonging to the middle class, who were backed by the PTI, won their seats. This shows that a new youthful political culture is emerging in Pakistan and traditional political culture is on decline. It can be hoped that Pakistan’s democratic culture is maturing itself and will further mature in the coming years. The power will probably be shifted towards the middle class of Pakistan in the future.
NAYYAR RANJHA
Sargodha
Box letter
Health is wealth
Health is a great blessing of the Almighty and engaging in sports is one of the best ways to maintain it. When we are healthy, we feel fresh, active and capable of competing with others. Indeed, playing sports is the optimal way to maintain our health and build strength. Additionally, regular physical activity through exercise and sports helps prevent diseases. To achieve better health, we must prioritize exercise, engage in sports and avoid consuming junk food. By adhering to these practices, we can enhance our overall well-being. While playing sports demands time and energy, the benefits of being healthy and fit are worth the effort. In conclusion, everyone should participate in sports and exercise regularly.
A CITIZEN
Via email
