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Capital in chaos
Imran Khan has issued a final call to his supporters, urging them to gather in Islamabad on November 24 to oppose the government.
However, as in previous instances, PTI’s leadership appears hesitant, concerned about the potential failure of this call to action. The ongoing series of protest failures, where objectives remain unmet and momentum quickly dissipates, has diminished the enthusiasm of both political activists and the general public.
Historically, PTI has faced difficulties in maintaining large-scale mobilization, with initial surges often fading due to poor planning and mismanagement. This has led to widespread disorder and unrest in the capital, where protests, instead of achieving their intended goals, have often resulted in chaos and disruption.
These recurring protests have transformed Islamabad into a city of blockades, with road closures severely impacting daily life. The education sector, with its concentration of institutions in the capital, suffers as students and faculty are unable to reach their campuses, leading to a significant setback.
The final call, which has the potential to be a high-stake event, risks backfiring, leaving PTI vulnerable to embarrassment and potentially strengthening the government’s position. This could provide a justification for the use of force against the protesters.
If PTI fails to achieve any tangible results, this final call may become its last misstep. Without a clear and effective strategy, the march could become another major disruption in Islamabad, a city already dealing with security challenges and ongoing threats of terrorism.
SAJJAD ALI MEMON
Sindh
Parachinar under terrorism
Parachinar continues to face relentless attacks from extremists, engulfed in the turmoil of Shia-Sunni conflicts. The most recent tragic loss of precious lives raises the recurring question: how long will the government remain a passive observer to this brutality? Violent incidents targeting Shia convoys have become alarmingly frequent, with extremists ambushing innocent travelers moving between cities.
The ongoing carnage has claimed the lives of countless women, children and adults, leaving the government squarely responsible for this catastrophic failure. A pressing question arises: who is orchestrating these heinous acts? Is it Sunni extremists, the TTP or other factions? These frequent attacks testify to the involvement of these groups in perpetuating violence. The Shia community in Parachinar is being deprived of its fundamental right to live peacefully.
Some argue that these attacks might have tacit provincial government’s approval, targeting local civilians indiscriminately, whether Shia or from other ethnicities. Comparisons are drawn to the unrest in Balochistan, where Baloch separatists target Punjabi civilians, while in Parachinar, groups like the TTP and other religious extremists systematically target the Shia community under the pretext of religious differences.
The government must take decisive action to combat this terrorism. If no military operation is launched, human rights activists and local leaders should unite to pressure the authorities. A stand must be taken to disrupt normal activities and demand a robust response. Until a military operation is initiated, protests and roadblocks should remain in place to highlight the gravity of the situation and push for immediate action.
SADAM HUSSAIN
Ghotki
PIA at crossroads
I am writing to express my deep concern regarding the ongoing privatization of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA). The decision to privatize PIA has far-reaching implications that need to be carefully considered.
Firstly, the potential dismissal of all employees as demanded by prospective buyers is alarming. This move could lead to significant job losses, affecting thousands of families and exacerbating the already high unemployment rate in the country. The government must ensure that the rights and livelihoods of PIA employees are protected during this transition.
Secondly, the demand for acquiring 76% of PIA’s shares raises questions about the future control and management of the airline. It is crucial that any privatization deal includes stringent measures to maintain transparency and accountability. The government should retain a significant stake to safeguard national interests and ensure that PIA continues to serve the public effectively.
TASNEEM YOUSUF
Karachi
