Kaira says blame game won’t fix nation’s woes, leaders must unite

LALAMUSA: Former Advisor to the Prime Minister on Kashmir Affairs and Gilgit Baltistan and PPP leader Qamar Zaman Kaira has said the nation is facing numerous challenges and there is a collective concern about the deteriorating conditions. 

A blame game is happening with citizens pointing fingers at political parties, institutions, and the judiciary. It is crucial to recognize that those in leadership roles, whether within political parties or institutions, are essentially fellow compatriots.

Addressing a gathering in Gakhra Kalan of Union Council Mangowal, Kaira said: “The pivotal question lingers: Why does the world embark on a journey of success while Pakistan appears to traverse a path of degradation? The core issue lies in our inability to determine the optimal course for steering the nation. Merely labelling politicians or institutions as the culprits is a self-indulgent oversimplification of reality. If there is a panacea for the challenges afflicting our nation, it resides in the political process. The key to ameliorating our country’s conditions is a conscientious electorate, scrutinizing the track record of candidates and casting votes judiciously.”

He said the imperative task is to send representatives to the assembly who possess the capability to contribute to the nation’s progress. “The well-being of our parties and the nation hinges on the competence of the representatives we elect. In the 266 constituencies of Pakistan, the elected representatives formulate the pool from which ministers are chosen. It is incumbent upon every voter, irrespective of constituency, to select representatives judiciously. The onus is not solely on individual constituencies but on the entire electorate across Pakistan to choose the best-suited representatives. Citizens must recognize that the quality of governance is contingent on the calibre of their chosen representatives.”

Kaira said assertions of eradicating corruption and transformative change should be scrutinized. Mere claims, without tangible results, do not warrant voter support. Elections should not be swayed by grandiose projects that lack a direct impact on the lives of constituents.

He said while the events of May 9 warrant legal scrutiny, individuals accused solely based on party affiliation should be accorded due process and the right to participate in elections. The nation’s spiritual leaders pray fervently for guidance for the rulers, but it is crucial to understand that rulers derive their authority from the people’s votes. Choosing representatives thoughtfully is the linchpin for the nation’s journey toward improvement.