And Now the Modiism

It’s vastly believed that Prime Minister Narendra Modi is a unique phenomenon in Indian politics. Admittedly, his love for India is quite obvious, so is his hatred for Pakistan and Muslim population.

Aside from his inherent flaws, Modi’s transformational leadership is inspirational beyond doubt. It’s usually thought that Modi goes a step ahead of Indira Gandhi because Ms Gandhi had an ideology, whereas, Modi is focused on-----power, power and more power. With more power, Modi should be able to resolve the toilets issue: By one estimate, some 300 million women and girls in India defecate in the open. Most of them belong to underprivileged sections of the society and are too poor to afford toilets. "Ending open defecation is an urgent priority that needs to be addressed, for the benefit of women and girls who live in poverty and without access to privacy and a decent toilet." Experts believe that India needs to scale up its war on sanitation with a special emphasis on women. But for a country which aspires for superpower status, lack of toilets is an enduring shame. On his stump, the new Prime Minister Narendra Modi of the Hindu nationalist BJP had promised,"Toilets first, Temples later". He needs to do that sooner to save lives of more women (source Indian media)

Coming back to Modi’s attitude regarding Pakistan and the Muslim population: Most probably, Muslims on both sides of Indo Pak border are hardly comfortable with the moody personality of ‘Modi in power.’ Historically, Modi’s passive support for anti Muslim Gujarat riots and Samjhota express bloodshed of unarmed innocent Muslim men, women and children was highly brutal and shameful act.

On the contrary, people in large number regardless of ethnicity, color or creed find a high quality in Modi’s administrative ability and his genuine delivery to his nation during his tenure as Chief Minister is praiseworthy. Furthermore, as Prime Minister he has passion to take India to the maximum height for providing financial prosperity to his people.

Other “good thing” is Modi is a “bad news” for the lazy Indians but the worst of all is Modi appears determined to be denying right of self determination (Plebiscite) otherwise available to the Kashmiri Muslims under original UN resolution.

Other problem is he is not doing anything to stop the ongoing cross border bombing which was initiated by the Indian forces on Eid ud Duha. Pakistani forces are only firing in defence and not targeting civilian areas. Furthermore, his anti Pakistan rhetoric make him look like Hitler. The irony is he employs anti Pakistan attitude just to gain more political mileage.

Moreover, firing along the disputed and working boundary between India and Pakistan has left at least 17 civilians dead.

The Himalayan territory of Kashmir is divided between India and Pakistan by the UN-monitored de facto border of LoC but is claimed in full by both the countries. “Pakistan considers that United Nations resolutions must be the base for any solution of Kashmir," Sharif remarked. He further said that, "People of Kashmir should be part of any solution of Kashmir. UN should honor its own resolutions. Any solution which is endorsed by all parties including Pakistani, India and Kashmir will be the only acceptable solution.”

Conclusion: India offers a good model of governance under Modi and the Pakistani ruling elite must adopt simplicity and avoid the infamous VIP culture. The corruption will automatically come to an end if the top man is simple, fair, motivated and enjoys command and authority as truly mandated democratically. And, Modi should rid himself of anti Pakistan feelings for the sake of regional peace and prosperity. Non resolution of Kashmir issue is clear evidence of failure of United Nations. So Kashmir issue must be resolved amicably sooner the better.

“Injustice to the Ailing Veteran”

What is the actual driving force for disgracing a 70 plus years old ex president of Pakistan who suffers from nine medical conditions? Among other factors, personal vendettas as well as pleasure of the friendly foes (external or internal) are the most probable motives.

The disease of opportunism runs in the human blood and unless it’s filtered out spiritually and ethically, the manipulators out there do try all kinds of political manoeuvres/stunts to achieve the goals as targeted.
Gen Musharraf having remained house arrested due to serious murder charges against him for almost one half of a year was finally released on bail. But it’s not over yet for the poor guy, as the Pythonic Article 6 looks for gobbling him despite his illness.

Apparently, the hypocrisy has almost taken over in Pakistan, where there isn’t “one standard” set for all indiscriminately.
The message is “might is right.”

No one is actually worried when watching the clowns manipulating for their greed. The manipulators never get tired of advocating in favour of democracy; however they never go for the real democracy.
Though, democracy is for the people, of the people, and by the people, yet an important element remains missing for ages; no leader ever cared for rectifying or improving of it. Reason is simple; this poses a potential hazard in their own election.

“Jamhooriat main bandon ko gina kertay han, tola nahi kertay.” Thus, democracy in this form is misleading and partially painful, because the fact is “quality is better than quantity.”

We are facing two problems: (a) Democracy based on election by all regardless of literacy level of the voter. (b) Democracy based on rigged elections where ballot stuffing takes place or vote is cast by other than the actual voter.
Fake votes are the worst scenario, where wrong candidates grab the assembly seats and some end up in the cabinet.

Now, with such a sham democracy in place, things start getting worse to a point where the population gets fed up and prays for the military take over.
Military takeover means “usurpation of the constitution.” which is carried out to save the failing state. This is called a coup which is meant to punish the culprits responsible for misgovernance.

Wishful talking about democracy/ jamhooriat all the time is only for the good of rich elite that takes turns, whereas fate of ‘masses below poverty line’ has not much to gain from this fake exercise of democracy.
The habitual power-grabbers want to maintain the ‘status quo’ for their own vested interests. The fact is, neither they are loyal with the country nor are they well wishers of the poor masses.

Furthermore, the same political mafia includes the land mafia, industrialists and the feudal lords who have been suppressing the oppressed from rising up for their basic legal rights on constant basis.
The other sad part is played by descendents of Sufi/saints in Pakistan who enjoy collecting cash from the followers and nobody pays tax on it. The impotent Auqaaf department is useless in this game.
Unfortunately, Pakistan does have the selfish politicians; this class of super humans leads a luxurious lifestyle which is comparable to that of the royal families around the world.

Ironically, they are the ones who always stress upon the importance of democracy; they teach virtues of democracy. They are the ones who are nourished in the lap of dictatorship but also talk about the curse of military dictatorship. Everyone knows these children of dictatorship have now turned champions of the rule of law and democracy, seeking to cover up their own misdeeds.

Shouting in favour of high treason trial and calling names such as “ghaddaar” would benefit no one other than the super active selfish mafia. What a mockery? Pathetic!
Political opportunism is at play: the selfish elite know fully well as to when, where and how to maneuver to achieve “means” to gain the “desired ends.”
Indeed, political manipulation is an important step of the game as long as it’s not costing reputation, yet, the national honour should never be compromised.

Ironically, there are those who believe or show that their salvation lies with military rule, but they are the ones who are the most fervent advocates of putting the embattled leader of the coup on high treason trial.
There are a number of the so called friends who were very active during the Musharraf era till the end; sadly, they are now conveniently absorbed in the new political order enjoying their new portfolios as ministers.
The same hypocrites have jumped onto the band wagon of condemnation of their former friend and leader. But, salutations to Ch. Shujaat and a few others, because they are telling the truth at this critical hour.

Though, Musharraf today stands deserted by his old associates and followers, his old ill wishers are turning to become his well wishers now. This is because the people with good conscience can’t tolerate injustice to anyone.
Let there be no selective justice, as law is blind; it flows on its own course.
Musharraf is no angel, he committed blunders and the law says each citizen is held accountable for his unconstitutional actions as long as the trial is not based on personal vendetta.
Conveniently, the federal government and the apex judiciary have attempted to restrict the current trial to the Nov 3, 2007 action.

Beyond doubt, the smell of something fishy is quite bothersome at this point in time. Obviously, it is not in their interest to go back to the original coup/counter coup of Oct 12, 1999.

As per the records, it was the judiciary that issued the validation sticker after having legitimised the coup. Additionally, the elected parliament later indemnified all the actions taken by the military-led government.
Many political parties had welcomed the overthrow of the Nawaz regime. Most of the N Leaguers came under the banner of Q League and became the face of the new order and had their share of power all through the allowed tenure. Uniform didn’t matter and the parliamentarians were more than willing to have Gen Musharraf re-elected in uniform for a second term and approved his decision to impose emergency on Nov 3rd, 2007.

The outcome of the current case is likely to face its own demise as ex army chief can’t be tried in a non military setting. The Pakistan Army act, as amended in 1978, covers the charges of "treason" as well as those pertaining to matters of military discipline committed by a uniformed officer of the Pakistan Army.
This special court has “no jurisdiction” on members of the armed forces even when the charge is that of treason. They are to be tried under the Pakistan Army Act through a proceeding under a court martial.

Conclusion:
Political culture needs a drastic overhaul to accommodate the right only candidates to prevent the future army coup. This is advisable as undemocratic norm has to change for a much better Pakistan sooner the better followed by the healthy economy where everyone shares the prosperity equally but according to the individual’s input.
There is a great lesson for everyone: God Almighty doesn’t like anyone with pride (takabbur). Let’s remember “pride hath a fall.” This happened with Nawaz Sharif and the same is happening with Musharraf.

Skeptical Treason Trial May Get Messier

The special court is hearing the “high treason case” against the ailing former military ruler Mr. Musharraf who has been undergoing treatment in Rawalpindi’s military hospital for a number of medical issues including heart. According to the doctors, his coronary angiography is needed to optimize the management. They plan to ascertain the possibility of further interventions, like coronary artery bypass surgery. Treatment abroad is a possibility. The medical report has reached the special court and the decision will be made soon.

On the other hand, one of Musharraf’s counsels, Anwar Mansoor, argues that the court has been constituted for a special purpose with limited jurisdictions, due to which it is not entitled to start criminal proceedings and can’t order arrest because that falls under criminal code.

Maybe, a personal vendetta or any political motivation or a ploy to divert attention from the national issues is at play. Let’s wait and see.
The fact is the PPP regime played smart for not going ahead with such a trial, but the N league dared and made the biggest blunder.

Dr. Atta ur Rehman logically destroyed the drama of Musharraf trial in three minutes. While Tahir ul Qadri maintains that justice can’t be selective meaning the singling out of Musharraf, because law is blind. He questioned if government in 1999 was sent home and the constitution was subverted in entirety, yet there is no treason trial. Why is 2007 emergency imposed by President Musharraf is being tried for high treason?
Chaudhry Shujaat recalled that oaths were also taken from the so-called ‘traitor’ in the recent past.

He said if the treason trial is to be carried out then it should be initiated from October 12.1999. Even if the trial is to be started from November 3, 2007, it would affect hundreds of individuals including former army chief Ashfaq Parvez Kayani and PML-Q leader Pervez Elahi. The word ‘Treason’ should not be part of the Constitution. It should be replaced with ‘violator of Constitution’, he maintained.
As all know, Musharraf has been hooked up in numerous judicial cases including the serious murder charges, but he has been granted bails.

The argument that we are forgiving the more serious sin of the military takeover of 12 Oct. 1999 and focusing on the actions of November 3, 2007 is very convincing indeed, where he has been booked under Article 6 (1) which reads: “Anyone who abrogates or attempts or conspires to abrogate, subverts or attempts or conspires to subvert, the constitution by use of force or show of force or by any other unconstitutional means shall be guilty of high treason.”

Nevertheless, the petitioner failed to invoke clause 2 of Article 6; it clearly shows the bad intent of singling out one individual for personal vendetta.
Article 6(2) makes it clear that “any person aiding or abetting the acts mentioned in clause (1) shall likewise be guilty of high treason.”

Unfortunately, only Musharraf was singled out by the 14-member bench of the Apex Court in its judgement of July 31, 2009 which ruled that the declaration of emergency was “unconstitutional, unauthorised and without any legal basis.”

The law is Article 232 permits the President to impose Emergency Rule under certain situations.
Article 232(1) allows the President to tackle a grave emergency if security of Pakistan is threatened, or any part thereof, by war or external aggression, or by internal disturbance beyond the power of a provincial government to control, he may issue a Proclamation of Emergency. Thus, imposing emergency rule is not similar to “treason.”

In 2007, suspending or holding the constitution in abeyance was not an act of high treason. In 2010, however, suspending and holding the constitution in abeyance became an act of high treason. It is legally and rationally ridiculous to retroject this backwards to try Pervez Musharraf for having allegedly committed ‘high treason.’
Therefore, Article 6 is not applicable upon a single individual. It talks about a joint venture/ a team work.

All involved in the conspiracy directly or indirectly are to be tried. Furthermore, the 18th Amendment has made the 17th Amendment null and avoid. This means that the 1999 Military (counter) coup is still open to investigation and no longer enjoys protection. All validation stickers are null and void. Therefore, if we are to abide by the requirements of Articles 25 & 6 of the Pakistani Constitution and apply the High Treason Act, we are to charge each and every individual involved directly and indirectly in the 1999 Army coup. This includes, all previous Army coups, including the coup carried out by the late President General Zia ul Haq.

Since, legitimizing the Military’s takeover using the “doctrine of necessity” argument was quite common, we need the following Solution: The criminal and civil wrongs are allowed to be done in village and the tribal culture, the votes for whole village/tribe are decided by other than the actual voter.

In order to have a genuine democracy, the prevalent electoral system needs to be replaced sooner the better to stop the criminal elite from taking undue advantage from it and reaching the parliament or other public office.
Only the educated and sensible people of integrity must be given the right of electing the right candidates who have utmost integrity, ability and WILL to deliver.
And, the current regime is obligated to comfort the suffering public through dealing with the real issues of economic uplift; avoiding the non issues will be a much better route, of course.
It’s necessary to have a genuine civilian government in power. This will stop future military take over.
Since law is blind, justice can’t be selective.
Let’s learn to respect the law and constitution.
Only genuine democracy is capable of safeguarding the interests of all individuals and the institutions.

Genuine Democracy in Pakistan, Still a Dream

Unlike dictatorship, monarchy and aristocracy, a democracy gives people right to voice their opinion and right of electing their own government and legislators. It is viewed generally as being the most challenging form of government, because the people themselves determine the most suitable direction for their country.

U.S. president Abraham Lincoln (1809-1865) defined democracy as: «Government of the people, by the people, for the people» Democracy is by far the most challenging form of government - both for politicians and for the people.

Simply speaking, a democracy means “rule by the people;” however, it is variously defined in differing ways among democracies of the world with regard to its local viability.

It is said that a competent official opposition is as necessary as is a competent government. In fact, the elected rulers are constantly under pressure to perform and deliver to the satisfaction of the ruled. The people don’t need sub standard governance. But in Pakistan, the past five years were wasted, as the regime has been busy manipulating the opposition parties with the intent of staying in power and nothing beyond.

The credit of easy passing of amendments and other bills goes to the friendly opposition which has been on board with the government enjoying “cabinet shares” in return for not opposing in the parliament.

Maybe, Pakistan has a little bit of democracy but the essential element of effective opposition is seen nowhere.

Surely, time for change is pretty close, and the nation is going to have a chance to change for the better.

The status quo parties can be eliminated through the forthcoming election.

Unfortunately, due to the sad demise of Muhammad Ali Jinnah, Pakistan has been governed by dictatorial regimes (civil/military), so the democracy never actually began in the real sense. The country remained in the clutches of powerful greedy elite throughout its history. The flawed system suited the rich in order to keep the vulnerable nation consisting of “poverty stricken majority” suffering in the dead end street.

Sadly, the civil service, the police, and administrative positions of higher level are usually occupied and controlled by the rich and the feudal. The independence of the Election Commission has been compromised in the past many a times. Notoriously, the commission has been performing below standard as people with bogus degrees were able to sit in the assemblies as fake legislators due to lack of proper screening and scrutiny of the candidates.

Also,  the federal and provincial assemblies are mostly made of incompetent members who are none other than the dishonest opportunists responsible for many national crises.

Furthermore, the dynastic and feudal politicians want to maintain their hold on the socio/economic/political power structures. This class of unethical politicians are usually driven by their selfish objectives which has nothing to do with their deliverance for the betterment of masses. Rather, these power grabbers are habitual of employing deceitful means including pressure tactics, coercion, threats of reprisals and much more just to get elected. This selfish attitude has pushed the country almost onto the verge of disaster where free fall is imminent.

Although not legally binding, the recent declaration signed between the government and Mr Qadri has some good points. If the so called deal is implemented as pressured, this should be helpful for a genuine election.

On the contrary, the rulers love to keep up the negative pressure to facilitate “unruly tactics,” so that political space of resistance fades away. The past experience shows that the State never hesitates when it comes to apply its “coercive apparatus” when threatened politically.

If the National Assembly dissolves before the due date of March 16, 2013 (believed to be March 10) the elections may take place within 90 days. With general elections in the first week of May, there is only one month for scrutiny of nomination papers for the purpose of pre-clearance of the candidates under article 62 and 63 of the constitution.

With regard to appointing a care taker set up, the government, the official opposition and the PTI must be on the same page.

An enforcement of electoral reforms prior to the polls seems unlikely but the following is worth focussing on:

(a) Article 62, 63 and 218 (3) of the constitution;

(b) Section 77 to 82 of the Representation of Peoples’ Act 1976 and other relevant provisions relating to conducting free, fair, just and honest elections guarded against all corrupt practices and;

(c) The Supreme Court Judgement of June 8, 2012 on constitutional petition of 2011 must be implemented in entirety in true letter and spirit.

It’s highly unfair with the people of Pakistan, if the ongoing political situation continues to be tolerated; as otherwise, the “privileged minority” would keep exploiting the “vulnerable majority.”

The whole nation should stand united now and be vigilant enough to fight the odds to go ahead with electing only those who are the most competent carrying the unchallengeable integrity. The electors must display their courage and be brave enough to reject all pressure from the powerful rich.

Obviously, the mindset of stinky electoral culture is not easy to remove before loosening of the feudal grip completely.

It’s crystal clear that the electors deserve to fully exercise their free will to elect only those who are sincere and capable of delivering honestly.

The current independence of the supreme judiciary has to be maintained, and the election commission should be cleansed of the officials with vested interests.

In order to guarantee free and fair polls, all high brass in the administration must be replaced by the care taker regime. Replacing Attorney General, all Advocate Generals, All IGPs (Inspector Generals of Police), all Chief Secretaries and the Principal Secretary to the care taker Prime Minister and a new chairman PEMRA (Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority) will be a definite help.

A neutral election authority and independent judiciary is a healthy sign capable of producing a strong political system.



 It’s also encouraging to know that the chief justice of Pakistan and the chief election commissioner are on the single page.

Moreover, the CEC Fakhrudin Ibrahim claims he won’t quit before he is done with free and fair election - wow!





[image source: google]

A positive change is possible only through free and fair ballot of course. Therefore, all members of the civil society should come out and participate in the upcoming election to pick the right only candidates in order to re-build the future of Pakistan exactly as envisioned by Hakeem ul ummat Dr Allama Iqbal and the founder/ father of the nation - Mr Jinnah.



The Pain of Confusing Reality

Though the current political system in Pakistan is based on parliamentary form of government, there still exits an ample space for mushrooming growth of corruption, which has been continuously rising ‘almost uninterrupted’ at various levels. The menace has gifted the incompetent rulers with political impotence.

Consequently, the national exchequer keeps on melting away faster than ever due to its abuse and loot of course. The artificial energy crisis has created a number of other crises which are becoming a difficult scenario day by day.

The uncontrolled terrorism by the anti Pakistan intruders and elements from within is a pain in the neck because of administrative paralysis.

Most of the verdicts by the apex court are ignored by the executive which clearly is breach of law and the constitution.

Nevertheless, it’s noteworthy that no parliament or government ever wanted to replace the stinky system. Rather, the vested interests of political thieves continue to be protected regardless of any economic or political tension at local or national level.

Furthermore, the hidden manipulators are hell bent to hurt Pakistan and use Terrorism (devil’s religion) as one of the effective tools to deter away any potential investor who wants to bring investment into Pakistan.

Simply speaking, a strategy is at work to weaken and inflict deep dents in the economy to bring the country to its knees. Thus, the whole country suffers economically, and Karachi being the commercial hub and back bone has been the hardest hit when it comes to commerce, trade and manufacturing.

A daily routine includes target assassinations, extortions, power outage, and the unemployed public are only a few examples among the long list that clearly shows there is no control due to sub standard governance. Certainly, the chaotic situation is a source of pleasure to those who have always been irked by the continuity of the existence of the troubled republic.

The motivating factor behind all this non sense seems to be the greed or revenge or both.

However, the people are confused for reason: The practice of hiding behind the smoke screen and employing escape goat are used as effective tools for camouflage purposes by the hidden hand just to spread confusion around.

A few years ago, Pakistan television channels were talking about some NGO guy who had adopted around “three thousand kids” through legal process in Pakistan and then left the country without a trace. Nobody knows what happened to those kids. Isn’t that painful?

It’s a cause of concern that kidnapping of immature teens and under age boys is on the rise, and the abductees are believed to be sold for heavy price. Maybe, the ill-fated kids end up with terrorists.

The officials are now gradually beginning to suspect foreign hand as well in the crime against humanity.

The government should dig out the hidden hand behind Terrorism and other crimes throughout the country especially in Karachi. Shamelessly, the killers are roaming the streets of Karachi - mercilessly targeting innocent people.  On average, around 10 people are getting killed per day. But the government and law-enforcement agencies are not fast enough to respond.

A transparent operation in the city of Karachi against the miscreants is needed desperately. Karachi being a multi-ethnic region is very complicating when it comes to control, so the authorities have to sit together with the MQM the ANP and the PPP on board to reach a viable solution amicably because negotiated settlement remain the best route to success indeed. But with elections looming, this is unlikely to happen and Karachi is stuck with the status quo on account of dirty ethnic politics.

Most probably, the military rule is out of question now. The N-League and the PTI, despite their tall claims don’t have much membership/support in Sindh. So, the nation looks with desperation for miracle that may make the current elected rulers take responsibility to enforce rule of law, collect taxes and spend the collection diligently on general welfare, provide the people with health and security of life and jobs.

With regard to terrorism, a major crackdown by the army against Taliban (TTP) is still on the card.

Investigators are trying to figure out if the local militants were being used by some external force.

Surely, Pakistani security forces do take action against the militants in various tribal regions based on concrete evidence. Also, a series of failed attempts to create rift between Shia Sunni sects has defeated the enemy many a times.

Mr. Jinnah created Pakistan eyeing for a system of governance compatible with Islamic ideology, but due to his death soon after, his dream couldn’t come true, instead the newly created country had to get along with a “misfit system” of governance. The non-compatibility has cost a lot to the country and the current suffrage is the side-effect of the non sense. In other words, a confusing parliamentary form of government blended with semi-presidential federal democratic republic is not workable in Pakistan, as it has only been producing a corrupt society from top to bottom.

Seriously, there is no choice but  crush terrorism at all cost for self survival.

For better governance,  the law makers should introduce presidential form of government, sooner the better. Under that system, the president is entitled to induct competent people of vision, integrity, professional knowledge and practical experience into the government. A better environment can be achieved with the changeover.

Most importantly, a major overhaul of the strategic priorities is the way to go.