Pakistan confronts a multitude of formidable challenges, yet two paramount issues cast ominous shadows, representing existential threats to the nation: the deteriorating law and order situation and the looming specter of economic collapse. Advocating for the resurgence of the old guard to grapple with these crises is akin to seeking medical advice from a physician responsible for exacerbating one's health problems.
Disturbingly, media reports have insinuated that the establishment may be favoring Nawaz Sharif and facilitating his potential return to assume the reins of power. It is a lamentable circumstance that seems to be unique to Pakistan, where a convicted individual, regardless of the validity of the verdict, departed the country in the guise of seeking medical treatment and resided in London for an extended period.
This situation raises pressing questions about the principles of justice and accountability, as well as the equitable application of the law in Pakistan. The perception that those with political clout can evade the consequences of their actions only serves to deepen the sense of disillusionment among the populace, eroding trust in the country's institutions.
The crucial question emerges: what innovative solutions can Nawaz Sharif offer to address the urgent challenges encompassing law and order, political polarization, and the precarious economic situation? Has he sought education or training in leadership or management during his extended stay in London, especially at renowned institutions such as Oxford or Cambridge, which might have enhanced his governance abilities or given him a new vision that evaded him during his three tenures as Prime Minister? However, it's pertinent to highlight that those acquainted with Nawaz Sharif's personal inclinations assert that a fervent passion for literature and intellectual pursuits is not a prominent aspect of his character.
The perception that those with political clout can evade the consequences of their actions only serves to deepen the sense of disillusionment among the populace, eroding trust in the country's institutions.
Significantly, the majority of Pakistan's youth, now the predominant voting demographic, feel an ever-widening disconnect with Nawaz Sharif. This disconnect stems from two significant factors. Firstly, his self-imposed exile from the country has severed his connection with the youth, rendering him out of touch with their concerns and aspirations. Secondly, his advanced age and inability to connect with the language and culture of today's youth further contribute to this divide.
When we reflect on Nawaz Sharif's three terms as Prime Minister, it becomes evident that his primary focus was on infrastructure development, particularly the construction of roads and underpasses. Undoubtedly, infrastructure plays a pivotal role in a nation's advancement; however, the challenges Pakistan has confronted over the years are far more complex than what can be addressed solely through road construction.
Even the allocation of priorities for infrastructure development during Sharif's tenure appears to have been misguided. Sharif's limited vision is evident when we consider that his government allocated three billion dollars from China Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC)’s loan towards the construction of Lahore's Orange Line train. This substantial sum could have been far more effectively utilized in the construction of dozens of small dams in Khyber Pukhtunkhwa, addressing Pakistan's critical power supply issues and providing affordable electricity – a pressing concern for the population. With just Rs. 224 billion, Sharif had the opportunity to construct the Lift Bank canal in Dera Ismail Khan, potentially enabling Khyber Pakhtunkhwa to achieve self-sufficiency in wheat production. Experts believe that these projects can deliver a return on investment within four years, making them highly viable when compared to projects like the orange line train and others of a similar nature.
While some may argue that Sharif's governments were prematurely dissolved due to external factors, it's imperative to scrutinize the economic and social reforms he either implemented or aspired to during his time in power. It raises valid questions about the depth and breadth of his vision for Pakistan's progress.
In evaluating his tenure, we should consider whether Sharif introduced comprehensive economic policies that fostered growth and stability. We should also inquire about the social reforms he championed to address the pressing issues facing the country. It's essential to assess whether his leadership ventured beyond mere infrastructure projects and aimed to tackle the intricate and multifaceted challenges Pakistan was grappling with.
In essence, while infrastructure development is undoubtedly a vital component of a nation's progress, a well-rounded evaluation of Nawaz Sharif's leadership should encompass a broader spectrum of economic and social reforms that were either executed or envisaged during his time as Prime Minister.
Dar's track record is marred by allegations of manipulating financial figures and artificially stabilizing the currency, hardly the credentials needed to address Pakistan's dire economic situation.
Turning our attention to Ishaq Dar, Sharif's trusted confidant who seemed to have all the answers to a myriad of challenges, and a prime contender for the role of finance minister, one cannot help but raise questions about his qualifications to helm the nation's economy. His primary claim to the role seems to be his status as the father-in-law of Nawaz Sharif's daughter, a tenuous link at best. Furthermore, Dar's track record is marred by allegations of manipulating financial figures and artificially stabilizing the currency, hardly the credentials needed to address Pakistan's dire economic situation.
Regarding Maryam Nawaz, who is considered the heir apparent of Nawaz Sharif and the Pakistan Muslim League (N), her inability to establish a meaningful connection with the public can be attributed to two prominent factors. Firstly, her ostentatious display of wealth, which many perceive as ill-gotten, creates a stark contrast with the stark reality of a population where 40 percent lives below the poverty line. Her designer bags or her jewelry, worth millions of rupees, seem out of touch with the everyday struggles of ordinary Pakistanis. Secondly, her perceived arrogance further distances her from the common people, making it challenging to envision her as a representative of a country grappling with such stark socioeconomic disparities. In the Western world, politicians often openly share their personal struggles and the challenges their predecessors faced, highlighting their humble beginnings and the relentless effort they invested to attain prominent positions in society. This approach aims to establish a strong connection with the people. However, in the case of Maryam Nawaz, it appears to be quite the opposite.
While some may advocate for Nawaz Sharif's return to power, it's crucial to acknowledge that addressing Pakistan's fundamental challenges requires more than a mere change in leadership, especially when considering individuals who have held such positions repeatedly. A holistic approach encompassing economic reforms, a heightened focus on security, a steadfast commitment to the rule of law, and a departure from polarizing politics is imperative.
It is imperative that those in authority in Pakistan refrain from enabling the return of Nawaz Sharif, whose historically Central Punjab-centric politics have often marginalized other provinces. Instead, they should usher in a new era, leaving the political arena open to fresh voices capable of introducing innovative ideas and placing the well-being of the entire citizenry above personal and familial wealth accumulation. This emerging generation of leaders, armed with fresh perspectives, has the potential to chart a path toward a more prosperous and stable future for Pakistan.