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Inflammable rhetoric
The flammable remarks by KP’s Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur, warning the government of the PTI’s armed capacity, are a reckless provocation in a political climate already teetering on the edge. With several lives already lost in recent clashes, such rhetoric does nothing but inflame tensions. Gandapur’s history of issuing irresponsible statements has long been a liability, but this latest outburst is particularly tone-deaf and dangerous. Lives are not pawns in a political chess game and comments that trivialise violence should have no place in a democratic discourse.
Escalating conflict, rather than seeking resolution, only pushes the country further into polarisation. Government also appears more intent on scoring points than ensuring stability, a strategy that risks undermining the very foundations of governance. The need of the hour is conciliation, not escalation. Pakistan stands at a critical juncture where political infighting threatens to derail any attempts at progress. For a country battling economic crisis, security challenges and social unrest, divisive tactics are a luxury it simply cannot afford. Cooler heads are needed to chart a path forward that prioritises the nation over individual egos or party agendas. Building bridges, fostering dialogue and finding common ground are the only viable options for restoring stability. This is not just a matter of political necessity—it is a moral obligation to the people of Pakistan who are bearing the brunt of this perpetual chaos.
Day to day strikes, rallies and dhanas creating innumerable hardships to daily wagers and public. Students already suffered due to closure of educational institutions due to Covid and Smog. The political elite would do well to remember that governance is not a battlefield and the consequences of continued antagonism could be devastating for a country standing on staggering economic pillars. It is time to de-escalate to political strife before the situation becomes uncontrollable by both sides.
QAZI JAMSHED SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Advent celebration
The Christian year begins in late November, with the four-week season of preparation known as ‘Advent’. For Christians, preparation for Christmas is not simply the crescendo of excitement that has come to typify the Christmas season.
This season of watchfulness and expectation is meant to prepare the heart for the second coming of Jesus Christ, ie the “advent” of Christ, as well as for the celebration of Jesus’ birth 2024 years ago. In many churches and Christian homes, the period of preparation is kept by the weekly lighting of Advent candles, one on the first Sunday in Advent, two on the second Sunday and three on the third Sunday.
On the fourth Sunday of Advent, just before Christmas, all four candles are lit. The lighting of candles draws upon ancient traditions of kindling fires at the time of the winter solstice, the darkest time of the year. From the fourth century, the celebration of Christ’s birth was set on December 25, the time of the Roman celebration of the “Sol Invictus,” the “Unconquered Sun,” at the time of the winter solstice when days began to lengthen once again.
JUBEL D’CRUZ
Mumbai, India
Clemency appeal
Respected President Joe Biden, I congratulate you and your family on the presidential pardon granted to your son, Hunter Biden. This profound act of compassion is a testament to the power of forgiveness and the belief in second chances—a belief that rekindles hope in hearts burdened by despair.
In this light, I implore you to consider the harrowing plight of Dr Aafia Siddiqui, a mother, a daughter, and a symbol of human suffering, who languishes in prison under an 86-year sentence stemming from deeply disputed charges. For over two decades, her life has been consumed by unimaginable anguish and deprivation, leaving her loved ones in perpetual agony. Her case echoes across the globe, stirring hearts that yearn for justice and mercy.
Dr Siddiqui’s story is not just one of a woman behind bars; it is a reflection of lost hope and enduring pain—a stark reminder of the fragility of justice. Extending clemency to her would be an extraordinary gesture of humanity, illuminating the values of fairness and compassion that define great nations. Mr President, your act of mercy could transform despair into hope, inspiring countless souls worldwide to believe once again in the promise of dignity and humanity.
M S SWATI
Rawalpindi, Pakistan
