Regressive politics

The PTI’s internal problems are spilling over into the open a little too regularly for the party’s discomfort. And it does not help of course that its media gurus are just not able to spin out politically correct statements as effectively as some of its contemporaries. The excuse for the no-show in Faisalabad is a good example. True, there have been too many complaints of harassment during the PTI’s rallies of late – which should be looked into – but to say that ‘PML-N goons’ were responsible for pulling the plug did not sell too well. For one, the press had already caught wind of the ego clashes that have been dominating crucial party meetings for some months now. Even Imran’s own influence has not been able to overcome the paralysis caused by these high-level conflicts and quarrels. But the Faisalabad build-up set a new low.

Strangely, for some reason, the PTI’s core leadership allowed these clashes of personalities to deepen. So much so that now they have practically taken over the main party narrative and can get even worse unless the leadership puts its foot down and enforces an acceptable code of conduct. The issue of harassment against women, too, is an extremely important one and should be probed thoroughly. The prime minister has done the right thing by ordering an enquiry, so that claims – and counter-claims – can be put to rest once and for all. Such activities are not only morally and legally reprehensible, but also very regressive politically.

Ayesha Aziz

Karachi