The Candid Overview of National Challenges

It’s said that those who do not learn from history are bound to repeat the expensive blunders over and over. Those having no integrity and proper education are always a “bad news” for the country and its people indeed.  Unfortunately, Pakistan still is struggling to stay afloat against all odds but it can’t go on forever with the status quo.

On top of that, the pessimistic approach of the leadership has converted the nation into a “scared pigeon,” who upon confronting a hungry cat closes his eyes out of fear and quietly surrenders only to end up as a “perfect meal” to the greedy cat’s stomach. So is the case with the vulnerable nation of Pakistan which remains in surrendering/submissive mode.

Attempting from different angles, the stake holders have been responsible for the mushrooming growth of (negative) scenarios pushing Pakistan towards its gradual demise. Obviously, they are taking advantage of the naive nation that has already been manipulated to get drowned in social vices including the rampant corruption and the ongoing dislike of the rule of law.

If democracy in Pakistan has finally been able to survive against the odds, the fact is choosing the electable means the feudal influence plays a major role; the business tycoons too get elected based on their influence. This indicates the presence of reduced chances for an  intellectual who run the risk of being left out and is never able to become a parliamentarian, whereas, the electable does stand a solid chance to reach his seat in the legislature with the potential of becoming the Head of any Ministry regardless of his/her credentials/education or ethical background. If that’s the case, there is going to be the case of administrative failure already. Furthermore, the resulted “sub-standard governance” triggers the birth of rampant dishonesty at every level.

Consequently, a large scale injustice prevails everywhere making it much easier for the enemy to wage a successful proxy war against Pakistan at will.

Despite the conflicting theories, almost every corner of the country has been infected with terrorists and the anti social rascals. Sadly, there is no proper apparatus in place to handle “the armed to the teeth groups,” therefore, the resultant crises of all types keep mounting.

Question naturally strikes one’s mind as to where the UNO is, and what has hypnotized the ruling elite?

Why the main stream global media is reluctant when it comes to pinpoint the real reasons as well as the mastermind behind the cultivated genocide in the Muslim lands?  This unfair practice is highly unethical; hence, remains a strong item for an open debate on various forums anyway.

The fear however is, if the anti-Pakistan momentum is allowed to be maintained at the current pace, and the naive Pakistanis fail to end their divide based on their difference of opinion, then it’s a “win win” thing for those who happen to be other than patriotic Pakistanis.

But, the painful reality suits the most only to those who have anti-national selfish ends built in the foul play.

Certainly, no economic recovery or normalcy can ever occur unless the obstacles are removed forthwith.

Although, the third timer prime minister of Pakistan Mr. Nawaz Sharif claimed during his 19th August 20, 2013 maiden address to the nation that he had been thoughtful every single minute to find ways to deal with challenges, yet he would need to understand more about how his governance business could revive the lost writ without any further delay.

Certainly, calling a spade a spade and distinguishing between the black and white is a step closer to the correct direction without which, one cannot reach the intended goal.

Mr. Sharif agrees that Pakistan has been shaken due to the administrative inefficiency and the overflowing corruption. He accepts that this negative reality has brought the national institutions like PIA, Pakistan Steel, Railway and WAPDA to the verge of virtual collapse.

Admittedly, a massive electricity and gas theft ranging from 150 to 250 billion rupees annually has made the government to launch an aggressive campaign against line losses.

Having diagnosed the problem fully well, Mr. Sharif should be able to remedy much of it, but he has to leave the pessimism behind. During the address, his facial expression and body language showed his disappointing hopelessness.

Surprisingly, the prime minister courageously showed his rage over the drone strikes and termed them as an infringement of country’s sovereignty, yet he didn’t have solution.

He admitted the issue of terrorism was due to the type of foreign policy but he showed his commitment to peace and friendly relations with the neighbours. Again, he failed to show any mechanism to tackle the issue.

As usual, he reiterated that Balochistan would no longer be ignored. His invitation to all political parties to resolve the crisis of terrorism collectively through dialogue or use of force is not a bad idea, yet again; it depends on how skillfully his regime disconnects any links between the militants and their pay masters from foreign or from within.

Mr. Sharif also claimed his regime has been working on overcoming the electricity crisis through the arranged retirement of circular debt worth 480 billion rupees. He claims electricity generation has been increased by 1700 MW.

Disappointingly, the prime minister had little to suggest about the “law & order” situation in Karachi, yet he touched upon his pet projects of motorways and railways.

In his maiden speech, the PM presented himself as sober and thoughtful but not very optimistic. However, he tried to show his sincerity and a new sense of commitment.

His speech will be used on different channels again and again in future to remind him of his commitments. So, he better be careful, as he will remain under microscope when it comes to his delivery as pledged.

Besides his dreaming of making Pakistan an Asian tiger, the chief executive with heavy mandate has been seriously talking about eliminating terrorism to end the vicious cycle of bloodbath, improving economy, addressing power crisis and pursuing good relations with all countries of the region including India for the sake of regional peace and prosperity. He spoke about the Kashmir issue, a good strategy towards Afghanistan and his intended bold review of foreign policy.

When will his dreams come true?  Only, time will tell.

What Does Eid ul Fitr Teach Us?

The end of Ramadan is followed by the month of Shawaal which gives the gift of Eid ul Fitr to the Muslims. Having attained the wealth of Taqwa and spiritual correctness during the daily dawn to dusk “Fasting Work Out” of Ramadan, many practising Muslims fortunately manage to be successful in becoming self disciplined. The positive change makes them feel at peace; immediately next thing for them happens to be the most exciting festivity of Eid-ul-Fitr.  In other words, upon successful completion of the month of Ramadan, the Eid day, in fact is a ‘Thanksgiving Day’ for having gone through a tough exercise towards “self-purification.” Allah o Akber.
The noble Qur’an has clearly expressed the act of Fasting as a blessing and not a calamity: “Allah desires ease for you, not your discomfort. He desires you to fast the entire month, and that you may magnify Him for giving you His guidance, and that you may give thanks.” (Al-Baqarah 2:185).
Among other essential elements is paying Zakat (wealth tax) and Fitra to minimize the harsh impact of any prevailing misfortune, hunger or widespread poverty. Therefore, when it comes to this religious obligation, the Muslims are duty bound to help out the needy people before the Eid Prayer.

Charity: The Muslims are required to pay Zakat based on their wealth and financial ability. It consists of spending 2.5% of one’s wealth for the benefit of the needy people. The good thing is paying Zakat is considered to be the personal responsibility of all Muslims to eliminate inequality and ease economic hardship of others for the sake of Allah subhanahu wa taalaa.

Charity in the form of fitra (fitrana) is obligatory at the end of the Fasting month before the Eid prayer. This again means the real happiness of “EID” lies in sharing our happiness with “the have nots.” 
Furthermore, while meditating and prostrating in congregation to God Almighty, the Muslim Ummah actually displays its real spirit of brotherhood and equality. So, on this happy occasion, we should always remember those who are afflicted with poverty, ignorance, disease, or are otherwise less fortunate.
The other beauty is Muslims on this very day are encouraged to erase their grudges or differences if any with others that might have occurred during the year.
Eid day schedule: After offering the regular Salat ul Fajr (the pre-sunrise prayer), the Muslims head out shortly after the sun-rise to perform the obligatory prayer  in congregation (slaat ul Eid) in open areas, community centres, or at masajid in some cases.
However, the important thing is Eid prayer is followed by special Khutba (Sermon) and supplication asking for God's forgiveness, mercy, peace and blessings for all living beings across the world. The Imam delivers khutba explaining to the Muslims about performing rituals of Eid, such as the compulsory Zakat or Sadaqat ul Fitr. It’s extremely important to listen to the obligatory Eid Khutba as well.
The Muslims are encouraged to stay away from worldly desires; they are advised to focus entirely on pleasing and thanking Allah for His merciful blessings. Indeed, it is a rejuvenation of the Deen of Islam, which creates stronger bonds between the Muslim person and his/her Lord.
Right after the Khutba is over, Muslims hug each other wishing Eid Mubarak, and then they visit their relatives and friends.
Also, The Eid gifts, known as Eidie, are frequently given on this precious occasion to children and immediate relatives. Children receive gifts in cash or kind; sweets and tasty dishes are served throughout the day.

Altogether, the caring Muslims donate money generously; they contribute to their local food banks for the less fortunate.
Beyond doubt, Eid is an opportunity for Muslims of different ethnic or cultural background to share together for prayers and celebrations.

Usually, the Canadian Muslims take time off from work to join prayers held in big-city mosques or Islamic centres, convention centres or sport grounds. 
In the larger cities of Toronto, Montreal, Vancouver, Calgary and Ottawa, congregational prayers may be offered at multiple times to accommodate the large number of worshipers.
In many Canadian communities, Muslim organizations and mosques also hold large Eid parties that are open to the entire Muslim community. Smaller Muslim communities, particularly in the rural areas, hold other communal gatherings in masajid or rented community halls.
Some groups reserve other activity centres for the full day of fun and celebration, while others may hold public Eid parties in mosques as a means of OUTREACH to the non-Muslim society.
After the Eid prayer, Muslims usually make long distance phone calls to greet dear ones.
The festival is aimed at promoting peace, strengthening the feeling of brotherhood and enabling the Muslims to move on with their lives normally as a refined Umma in the eyes of our Creator. Hence, the Eid and its celebration in Islam carry a distinctive meaning and spirit as they are totally different from the celebrations in non Muslim communities.

It’s commonly seen that holiday for non Muslims is a chance to indulge in worldly pleasures, or involve oneself sinfully or immorally and unlawfully. But for Muslims, there is zero tolerance in the eyes of Allah subhanahu wa talaa for committing forbidden acts.
 
In nutshell, the `EID’ is an occasion to increasingly go for good deeds only. The 'EID' doesn’t give an automatic ticket to take a vacation from Islamic responsibilities, and no wasting of time and money is permitted either, simply because our obedience and submission to the will of Allah cannot be compromised under any circumstance.

Furthermore, the ‘EID’ is a chance to multiply good deeds by bringing happiness and pleasure to the hearts of other Muslims, by devoting for the sake of Allah SWT.
Most importantly, it’s the spirit of thanksgiving that make the Muslim Umma stronger all over the globe for the accomplishment of an act of dedication and submission to the total will of Allah, the Almighty.

The Troika of Chiefs on Way Out

The last quarter of 2013 is important as President Asif Ali Zardari completes his term in office, Chief Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Choudhry (CJP) retires, and the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Pervaiz kayani goes home after having availed of his three years extension.

Naturally, replacing them all is a real challenge. So some modification in the current policy matters may become imperative just to re-model/facelift three respective areas namely the Presidency, the Judiciary and the military respectively.

The painful history of the past military take overs reminds us of the harsh realities associated with it. But every time, the coup maker succeeded in getting validation sticker from the Apex court under the pretext of doctrine of necessity.

Originally a PCO judge himself, Mr. Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Choudhry thwarted all pressure from General Musharraf, and on 3rd November 2007 emergency/mini martial law was imposed. Those who took oath under fresh PCO stayed and the rest of the judges around sixty were house arrested.

BB’s assassination was cashed by the PPP and later on President Musharraf had to step down to make room for Zardari.

With the intervention of general Kayani, the Zardari regime finally restored the Choudhry judiciary replacing the Dogar judiciary.

Ever since, starting with repealing of NRO, Justice Iftikhar Choudhry has been passing historic judgments independently, but the PPP government has been defying all apex court verdicts.

Despite its failures to deliver, the PPP regime managed to last for full term of five years, however, the credit goes to the shrewd Zardari who occupies the Presidency since 2008.

The COAS General Kayani, a cool headed gentleman stayed away from interfering in the political matters. And Justice Choudhry didn’t invoke article 190 asking for the military intervention for his verdicts to be implemented for reason of expediency. Many believe that because of the international situation, the army has been too busy on the western border and is not in a position to take any step against the system at present and in the foreseeable future. 

National Security Issue:  Pakistan Tehreeq-i-Insaaf Chairman Imran Khan’s concern about national security is genuine one. He has called for a closed-door meeting with Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif and Chief of the Army Staff General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani before an all parties conference (APC) on national security takes place.

Nevertheless, with the issue of replacements, the uncertainty again looms over Pakistan as it’s a major challenge for the third timer Prime Minister. He must play smart this time.

Two questions:

Firstly, will the new chief justice be as strong as the current one enabling the apex judiciary to carry on with their verdicts without interference from any quarter?

Secondly, is there any guarantee that the cool headed Kayani has persuaded his soldiers to remain subservient to the government after he leaves office?

The major worry is if the army is just monitoring now to retaliate later.

Most probably, the incoming bosses will adopt policies different from the ones being pursued at present. If that happens, the whole picture may change abruptly with new appointments.

Suggestions for choosing criterion:

Reviewing the past makes the future foreseeable with ease: Iskandar Mirza selected Ayub Khan, Bhutto selected Zia-ul-Haq, Nawaz selected Musharraf, and all selectees went for coup against the selectors.

It’s said, “Once bitten twice shy.” This time Nawaz will have to be extra careful while choosing. He should also take civil and military administration onboard while appointing someone on such high profile position.

Another clue is, if the prime minister goes for a General who is honest, efficient, a decent human being, qualified for this position based on seniority, and a super clean record, and then there is not even a slight chance of adventurism on his part to threaten the civilian government.

Surely, the Army chief selected on the basis of strict merit will be efficient and intelligent enough to meet the national and international challenges without any reluctance in the best interest of the country.

So based on the multiple factors including seniority and the merit, the next Chief of the Army Staff and the Chief Justice of the Supreme court of Pakistan can be picked with confidence.

Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has no option but to adhere to the principle of sequence of seniority list; he should not violate the rule by giving extension to the retiring General as this will amount to deprive the others to avail their right.

However after the retirement of the two chiefs, the services of Mr. Justice Iftikhar Muhammad Choudhry can be best utilized as Advisor law and justice to help maintain the momentum of judicial reforms, whereas, General kayani can be retained as military advisor to the government of Pakistan for his experience with the US and the NATO, so that 2014 withdrawal takes place smoothly as scheduled.

Furthermore, the common prediction is President Zardari would leave the country before the day of losing his presidential immunity, yet anything pending against him prior to becoming the president remains open for litigation beyond doubt.

This time again, it’s up to the Legislators and Senators to elect a good person and they better avoid sending a notorious person to the presidency.

Believe or not, if a wise voting takes place, there will not be any international embarrassment as was there due to ill reputed outgoing President.

Pakistan democracy is far from maturity. It will flourish if the culture and mindset of all involved changes for the better.

Ramadan, Excellent Source for Taqwa & Overall Health

Canadian Muslims are excited, as the blessed month of Ramadan has already begun to give them another golden chance for self-evaluation and spiritual growth. Ramadan is also called Ramzan or Ramadhan and is the ninth month in the Islamic calendar, which consists of 354 days in 12 months cycle. The month is spent in the hot pursuit of Taqwa by the devout Muslims all around the world for 29 or 30 days every year depending on various factoral limitations.

On the (lunar) Islamic calendar, Ramadan is always on the same date; however, the date on the (solar) Gregorian calendar varies from year to year. The month moves in the Gregorian calendar approximately 11 days annually. Since the Islamic calendar is lunar, and the days begin at sunset, so there is a slight chance of one-day in counting error depending on when the new moon is first sighted.

Fasting during the month is one of the five pillars of Islam and is known to be month of reflection and complete submission to Allah SWT (God Almighty). The majority of the Muslim Ummah agrees that fasting in the month is an essential part of fundamental Islamic obligations.

The beginning and ending of the month may vary from country to country depending on the moon sighting.

Islamically, fasting (sawm) is abstaining or refraining from certain things for a specified period of time. For example: While fasting, a Muslim is required to abstain from sexual intercourse, food and drinks of all kinds right from dawn to sunset time preceded by the intention (Niyyah).

But one must remember that sins under no circumstance are justifiable regardless of fasting or not.

Dawn to dusk fasting starts before Fajar (Sunrise) and ends at Maghreb (Sunset) when “Iftar” (breaking fast) is mandatory. Almost all masaajid (mosques) host daily Iftar during Ramadan where Muslims can break their fast and eat together.

Exemption: The young children, the sick and the elderly are exempted from fasting.

Realising the pain of starvation: The Ramadhan fasting enables the Muslims to broaden their compassion for “the Hungry” and “the less fortunate.”  That is why; the Muslims tend to generously donate to charity.  It’s pleasing to know that hyper-participation in food drives for the poor during the month is quite usual, as Muslims are motivated to give out for the needy and hungry for the entire year.

And in Masaajid, the Qur'an is recited by the Imam during congregational taravi prayers every night throughout the blessed month.

Essence of fasting during Ramadan and its goal is summed up in the Qur'an just in one word: “Taqwa”-"O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may attain Taqwa." (Qur'an 2:183).  Taqwa is both an attitude and a process. In fact, the proper attitude of the Muslims toward Allah SWT denotes nothing but love, devotion, and fear.
This clearly indicates that Ramadan-fasting like other religious practices in Islam is one of the best sources available to generate moral excellence to appropriately handle the daily routine matters including social interaction. Beyond doubt, one can achieve the best moral values and can easily become a role model for others provided there is no hypocrisy or double standards.

If we are sincere towards Allah SWT, fasting in Ramadan helps us to develop our moral discipline, which also reminds us of the plight of those have-nots who suffer from constant hunger and deprivation.
With all said, it boils down to the fact that “Fasting” is not simply a time during which people deprive themselves from physical pleasures, but it’s also an important occasion to practise moral self restraint for attaining the spiritual growth.

Indeed, the sense of spiritual fulfillment through a state of “TAQWA” becomes attainable with month long “Fasting Work-Out” during the blessed month, because the first verses of the holy Quran were actually revealed to our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Ramadhan.  

And, “Laaelatul-Qadr” is remembered as being the anniversary of that actual day, when the Quran was actually presented to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Furthermore, the “Laaelatul-Qadr” is known as the “Night of Power” which usually falls on any odd dated night within the last 10 days of Ramadan.

As sawm in Arabic means “Refrain,” so Ramadan provides the best opportunity to learn that there is a lot more than just the ‘disallowed eating or drinking’ between the Sunrise and the Sunset.

Fortunately, the blessed month empowers the Muslims to be brave enough to restrain themselves from devilish or sinful activity including backbiting, gossiping, looking immorally at forbidden things and using obscene words.

Thus, taking part in the mandatory practice of Ramadan fasting through offering the prayers on time, eating and drinking as prescribed makes the Muslims well disciplined and Muttaqee (God fearing).

Among the health benefits of Ramadhan fasting, is the relaxation period for stomach, digestive system, refining system, heart, circulatory system, the kidneys and the list goes on and on.

As claimed by medical scientists and doctors, Islamic Fast is also a kind of psychological treatment, because it provides spiritual enhancement and strengthens the feeling of being free from physical limitations and habits and addictions.

Since the blessed month make Muslims feel morally re-conditioned and rebooted, they must maintain the momentum of carrying out their self-check up through increased religious dedication 24/7 during the entire remainder of the year till next Ramadan.

As self-discipline, patience and spirituality are the great fruits of fasting work out, surely, Ramadan helps grow the remembrance of Allah SWT leading to another renewal of solid commitment to the noble values that God Almighty has revealed to the Muslims and the entire Humankind, of course.

Nevertheless, without sincere effort, benefits derived from fasting are short lived.

In fact, Islamic Fast, which plays an important role in the treatment of some diseases, can be very effective if it is practiced according to the Sunna of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Conclusion is Islamic fasting during Ramadan or otherwise definitely helps in ridding our bodies of stored poisons, including addictive substances, and we feel enabled to adjust our craving and upgrade our tolerance level.

Most of all, one’s mind becomes purely clean and clear of all lustful thoughts after attaining Taqwa.

Happy 146th Anniversary ‘O Canada’

As usual, July 1 is fast approaching, so is the Canadians’ excitement. Since “Canada Day” is a federal statutory holiday, it’s celebrated throughout Canada with full fervour - all in recognition of the ‘July 1, 1867 enactment’ of the British North Americas Act (BNA), which is also called “The Constitution Act, 1867.”

Historically speaking, the Canadian founders of confederation were the representatives of the British North America colonies who attended the three major conferences on Canadian confederation. Sir John A. Macdonald became the first Prime Minister of Canada on that day; not only was he the ‘father of confederation,’ but he also drafted two-thirds of the provisions of the BNA creating the ‘Dominion of Canada.’ 

As a result, Canada became a self-governing dominion of Great Britain. The four provinces were created from the former British colonies of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Quebec and Ontario. Presently, Canada consists of ten provinces and three territories.

Canadian national holiday was enacted in 1879 under the name “Dominion Day.”

In fact, the formation of the union of provinces under a new country is the basis of Canada’s July 1 celebration each year.  Furthermore, the 'Dominion Day' changed into 'Canada Day on October 27, 1982. 

The official lyrics "O Canada" were finalized in 1968 by a special joint committee of the Senate and House of Commons. This day also marks the anniversary of the officially proclaimed “O Canada” as national anthem. The Royal anthem plays 'God Save The Queen' at some festive locations celebrating Canada Day.

Although, the National Capital Commission (NCC) has already invited all Canadians to celebrate 146^th birthday on Parliament Hill, yet Ottawa always welcomes Canadians from all across Canada who reach the national Capital to join to enjoy the specifically designed and scheduled festivities.

Thousands of Canadians will congregate on the Parliament Hill to mark their country’s birthday. In the morning, they will be able to attend the Peace Tower carillon concert at 9:00 a.m., the traditional flag-raising ceremony at 9:30 a.m., and the Changing of the Guard at 10:00 a.m.

This year’s Canada Day’s noon show will feature an amazing lineup of talented Canadian performers such as Carly Rae Jepsen and special guests including Chris and Hadfield.

The Noon Show includes a fly-past of CF-18 fighter jets and the Snowbirds Demonstration Team. The show will be hosted by Measha Brueggergosman, with special guest Hélène Campbell, and will feature:

Carly Rae Jepsen, British Columbia Pop- dance, Marie-Mai, Quebec- Pop rock, Metric, Ontario- Indie rock, Terri Clark, Alberta- Country, Karim Ouellet, Quebec- Pop, Jennifer Gillis, British Columbia- Musical theatre and a special performance by Commander Chris Hadfield.

Also, the NCC will present the evening show on Parliament Hill, festivities on Canada Day official sites and the spectacular fireworks display as Canadians gather in the Capital. The Evening Show includes a variety of performances by Canadian artists.

The fact is even the people staying behind also go outdoors joining BBQ parties and enjoying the fireworks all over the country.

Let’s not forget, the Multicultural Society has contributed significantly to keep Canada going with excellence. Last year, a spectacular Canada Day Celebration at Strathcona Park was successfully organized by the Muslim Coordinating Council (MCC-NCR) and the Indonesian Canadian Congress (ICC) followed by a positive feedback from so many Canadians of different ethnic and religious background. It was a lot of fun, especially for the children.

The event served as a good bridge to facilitate Muslims to build ties with Canadians of other faiths. The international "mouth watering" food and dishes from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Eritrea, Somalia, Egypt, Yemen, Lebanon, Palestine, Iraq, and Turkey were available. Moreover, Zuhar prayer in congregation was offered.  Also, there was a lovely play by students of Furqaan Qur’an School in Ottawa.

Regardless of insurmountable difficulty, a tolerance level among the members of this type of multi-cultural society is a real blessing, as it has been playing big role in promoting diversity in schools, work places, businesses and academic institutions. Of course, the credit goes to millions of motivated immigrants who kept building this nation to make Canada an attractive country to live peacefully. 

Constitutionally, the Canadian society enjoys equal rights, opportunities regardless of their ethnicity, race, creed or color.

As said above, every year,  tens of thousands of Canadians celebrate Canada Day in grand style in the nation's capital flocking to Parliament Hill to take part in the Canada Day Noon Show with the Governor General, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages.

Why not, Canadians do deserve to celebrate their legacy, pride and opportunities.

July 1 Celebrations take place in all other parts of the country. And, the 146th happy Canada Day celebration in Surrey BC features: world class entertainment, great food, games and amusement rides, and a spectacular fireworks finale. Plus, there will be a main stage presented by Chevron, for another stellar lineup.  In addition, Shooting Star Amusements will have a full range of family-oriented fun for the younger crowd, including amusements, interactive games and bouncy castles - wow!

As the Canadian history reflects the wonderful diverse cultural races, the importance of celebrating Canada Day means a lot - certainly.

Beyond doubt, it brings us together, strengthens our communities, and helps us understand the significance of the Canadian life.

LONG LIVE CANADA

"Battered Pakistan Deserves Better"

The ongoing stubborn energy crisis, the deteriorated security situation, the law and order condition, inadequate supply of clean water, a compromised quality of health & education facilities, pending incomplete infrastructure, rampant corruption, joblessness, widening ‘rich-poor gap,’ administrative paralysis, a sub standard governance and cases pending adjudication in courts for ages finally  persuaded the naïve Pakistanis of narrow mindset  to come out to elect their new leaders for a positive change.

This time, the voters’ turnout was officially reported as 55%, whereas instances of ‘ballot stuffing’ and ‘massive rigging’ in some constituencies were alleged to have taken place unfortunately.

Many old faces belonging to the winning political parties were again able to grab a seat or two or even three and made to the floor of the provincial or national assembly.

The PML (N) emerged as winner of more than simple majority of seats in the centre and also maintained upper hand in the Punjab province.

With Nawaz Sharif’s support, the National Party Chief Abdul Malik Baloch formed the government in Baluchistan and the PTI formed government in KPK. while the PPP now continues to govern in the province of Sindh.

Although, the PML (N) enjoys heavy mandate, and Nawaz Sharif has won his premiership with 244 solid votes, yet, it will not be that easy to deal with the messy scenario. Nevertheless, the jovial Sharif brothers’ towing skill is already in full gear to pull the ‘sinking country’ out of the severity.

Due to difficult situation, the Nawaz-regime will have fun dealing with the creditors who are already knocking at the door. One of the main culprits is the “circular debt headache” which arises when one party not having adequate cash flows to discharge its obligations to its suppliers withholds all the payments.

And in so doing, the problem affects other entities adversely in the supply chain, each of which withholds its payments too. This results in operational hardships for all service providers in the sector - none of whom are then able to function at full capacity. Consequently, there occurs the load-shedding unnecessarily - of course!

Not only, the harsh ground realities keep flaring up, but a large chunk of the inherited issues remains a headache. Also, several surprises can be expected at this point in time. In fact, brain drain, capital flight and the disappearance of local businesses are all blamed on the energy crisis and the nationwide worst law & order situation. On top of that the secretly funded Taliban and the criminals are engaged effectively in a proxy war to damage Pakistan beyond repair.

Since, hyper-inflation and the tattered economy are the obvious results of energy crisis, the prime minister removed the Chairman WAPDA and the Heads of power distribution companies, while emphasising that incompetence or power theft would not be tolerated. So hiring and firing will be seen for quite some time to come till the dust actually settles favourably. Accordingly, the Federal Minister Khawaja Asif has already proceeded seriously to address the menace on a top priority basis.

PM Nawaz Sharif proposed making a “common agenda” with political parties to minimise problems and stressed the need for improving ties with the neighbours in the region focusing settlement of all outstanding issues, including Jammu and Kashmir. In his policy guidelines to the Foreign Office he told the government's immediate attention would be on improving ties with the neighbours.

"Unless the region is peaceful, our efforts for growth and development will not meet with success," said the Prime Minister.

Giving details, a Foreign Office spokesman said the Prime Minister had greatly stressed upon the importance of regional consensus for a stable and peaceful Afghanistan.

Regarding Pak-US ties‚ the Prime Minister noted the two countries have many areas of common interest. He said, “We will build on convergence and wherever there is divergence we will work to try to minimize and remove such divergence.” Furthermore, the federal finance minister Mr. Ishaq Dar has tried his best to keep fiscal year’s budget deficit under a manageable limit.

Good news:

The Punjab farmers are likely to be provided with solar-powered tube wells.

The KPK has announced the introduction of “a uniform education system,” which will gradually do away with the current class-based education system.

Suggestion:

Austerity measures should be taken seriously for effective slashing of the abuse of wastefulness:

Along with abolishing of the unjustified VVIP protocol culture and flagged cars, the government has to continue with its tough decision policy to correct the decaying condition of national institutions like  PIA (Pakistan International Airlines), Pakistan Railways and Pakistan Steel.

The experts including the top level economists and the technocrats must be hired by the government to pursue a “better-designed” road map for rescuing the sinking country. Furthermore, by bringing the Taliban to the negotiating table for a viable peace, the current government would have greatly reduced the atmosphere of insecurity and lawlessness –paving the way for foreign investors to return with full confidence.

The relevant authorities must now work day and night to provide:

1. Clean water to the public as a big segment of the population suffers from some strain of hepatitis and other health issues due to the consumption of sewage-tainted drinking water.
2. low-cost housing projects for low-income groups as the current house rents, land and housing prices are sky high.
3. Community centres where sports-facilities are available for the youth to keep them mentally and physically healthy.
4. Replacement of the flawed lower judiciary to facilitate the inexpensive faster justice.
5. Computerized Land records and land transfers on urgent basis to make it easier for the present and future generations.

If the democratic process in Pakistan is allowed to continue, it would be a step in the right direction towards sustainable development and progress.

Certainly, when the issues are tackled diligently on priority basis for achieving the set targets; Pakistan would be back on the path to economic recovery.