Fantastic Turkey

This refers to the article, ‘Fantastic Friday’ (July 17) by Syed Talat Hussain. The writer listed three reasons for the abortive coup by a faction of the Turkish army. All three reasons pertain to the basic faults or error of judgement by the military leaders of this coup. Surprisingly, the writer did not give any credit to the civilian political leadership of the elected government of Turkey. In fact, the political leadership was instrumental in bringing the people out on the streets. Thousands of civilians and political activists just simply marginalised the coup leaders and their handful of supporters.

President Erdogan remained with his people. These are the traits of a truly popular and courageous political leadership. In Pakistan, whenever such a situation arises our so-called ‘visionary leaders’ go underground. On top of that, there are some ‘time-tested’ political opportunists who make a beeline to offer their ‘support’ to the takeover. What a contrast.

Abid Mahmud Ansari

Islamabad