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National priorities
While international relations and global visibility are crucial for any country’s progress, it is far more essential for governments to prioritize the well-being of their own citizens. The focus should be on addressing pressing domestic issues that impact the everyday lives of people. International coverage is important, but the needs of the nation should come first.
There are numerous ongoing challenges within the country that require immediate attention, such as healthcare, education, employment and infrastructure. These issues directly affect the quality of life for citizens and are foundation upon which a strong, self-sustaining nation is built. Ignoring these problems in favour of global pursuits can lead to a disconnect between government and its people, resulting in dissatisfaction and unrest.
Students, in particular, need more support and guidance. They represent the future of the country and their education, training and development are vital. Providing resources, mentorship and opportunities for students should be a priority, ensuring they are well-equipped to contribute to the nation’s growth.
The government must make necessary adjustments and reforms to address these internal issues. While global presence is important, focusing on the country’s core needs should take precedence. By investing in its people and addressing domestic problems, a nation can build a stronger foundation for future success, both nationally and internationally. Prioritizing the well-being of citizens creates a stronger, more unified country capable of thriving in the global arena.
ROYYAM SAQIB
Islamabad
The US elections
There have been hullabaloos and noises doing the rounds regarding the upcoming 2024 presidential election in the USA. Big media houses like CNN, Washington Post are now shouting and screaming the names like Kamala Harris and Donald Trump apart from disseminating special and extra reports on the 2024 American election. The viewers like me often bump into the slogans like “Make America Great Again.” This is quite interesting but different to me. For the most part, America has been an attractive country, getting attention from the international community.
In the recent period of history, America’s name has been unnecessarily dragged into so many controversial issues around the world. It is time the USA should wake up to reality. More to the point, the American media houses are generally kind enough to present the news report in a proper way. In fact I have observed the mentality of American media on TV channels like CNN and in the newspapers like Washington Post. There is always gentleness [kindness] in their writing and speech [So far I have met by chance many Americans in Tuticorin, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari].
The people [known for their hard work, classic composure and traditional lifestyle] from my native places like Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu have the natural tendency to appreciate others apart from being kind to strangers. There is nothing wrong admiring the beautiful things in the world. Finally, the next American President should show his/her kind facets to make peace with the entire world.
P SENTHIL S DURAI
Maharashtra, India
Integrity and impartiality
Justice Mansoor Ali Shah’s recent comments against Ex Chief Justice Qazi Faez Isa represent a troubling manifestation of personal and political undercurrents within Pakistan’s judiciary.
His views created doubts regarding judiciary’s impartial and non-partisan role to be played in political issues. Justice Shah’s refusal, alongside his allies, to attend the swearing-in ceremony of the new chief justice underscores the perception of professional pettiness, hinting at dissatisfaction over the leadership choice.
Such behaviour not only raises questions about personal grudges influencing judicial responsibilities but also calls into question the criteria for appointing those entrusted with the nation’s highest judicial institution.
In Pakistan where the judiciary is more vital for upholding democracy, this display of partisanship only weakens public confidence in the institution’s impartiality. Justice Mansoor Ali Shah’s remarks may reflect the background power struggles within the judiciary, revealing a desire among some justices to exercise political influence rather than uphold judicial independence.
For Pakistan’s judiciary to maintain credibility and perform its democratic function, personal biases and individual ambitions must be set aside. The courts must safeguard their independence by adhering strictly to the constitutional framework, allowing parliament to legislate, which is its sole right and reserving the judiciary’s role for interpretation and protection of the rule of law. Democracy can only be flourished if all powerful institutions of the government work within their domain as specified in the Constitution.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
