While the 16th Karachi Literature Festival provided an essential platform for debate and discourse, it remains vital to question the extent to which such events can create tangible change beyond intellectual circles.
The festival, however, successfully highlighted overlooked issues in Pakistani society, such as military interference, judicial complicity, and the need for constitutional reform. However, its impact on the broader public discourse remains limited by the festival's nature, attracting a specific segment of society while excluding others.
The pertinent question still arises here, whether new episode of KLF is generating fresh debates that are missing from other public forums, including the mainstream media.
Pervez Hoodbhoy, a prominent scholar, addressed the crisis in how Pakistan’s history is taught, describing it as a "misunderstanding" or Mughalata Pakistan, suggesting that the curriculum often distorts historical realities. His critique underscored the urgent need to confront these misconceptions for a more honest national discourse.
Senator Raza Rabbani, speaking at a session titled Constitution and Rule of Law, expressed deep concerns about the erosion of civilian authority in Pakistan. He declared, “In my lifetime, I have never seen such a low point for civilian supremacy as we are witnessing today.” Rabbani highlighted the growing interference of the military in civilian matters, asserting that restoring civilian supremacy is impossible without addressing these structural issues. He also criticized the judiciary for legitimizing military interventions, stressing the urgent need for constitutional reform and a re-examination of the state’s role since independence.
He pointed out that the 26th Amendment is the latest change to the Constitution. “We need to focus on the fundamental question what is the structure of the Constitution? What is the role of the state of Pakistan, and what has it achieved since its inception?” He questioned.
“The military leadership, in collaboration with various groups, worked to maintain their grip on power,” he said.
The session the Legal System of Pakistan by Hamid Khan explored the challenges within Pakistan’s judicial framework. Moderated by Salahuddin Ahmed, the discussion highlighted barriers to justice and the need for constitutional flexibility.
In a society increasingly stifled by censorship and shrinking spaces for free expression, events like KLF Organised by Oxford University Press Pakistan (OUPP) are not just necessary, they are vital. They serve as a breath of fresh air in a suffocating environment, offering a rare opportunity for open dialogue. Such platforms must continue to evolve, ensuring that the debates they inspire reach beyond the walls of the festival, sparking meaningful change in the wider society.
The highlight of the event was the launch of 26 books over two days, reflecting a broad spectrum of themes ranging from personal narratives and diasporic experiences to socio-political critiques. Among the notable book launches were Mishal Husain's Broken Threads, which delves into empire and independence, and Pervez Hoodbhoy’s Pakistan: Origins, Identity, and Future, a thought-provoking exploration of Pakistan’s historical and cultural identity. Works like Home: It's Complicated examined modern notions of belonging, while Dream Deutschland? captured the struggles of the Pakistani diaspora. The festival also celebrated classical literature, such as Three Tales from Gulistan-i-Saadi, alongside contemporary voices that explore artistic expression and women’s empowerment.