Empty leaders

This refers to the article, ‘What have we done to deserve this leadership?’ (July 12) by Ayaz Amir. The opinion was a candid analysis of the emptiness and mediocrity of the present Punjabi establishment and political class. I think two factors have brought about this : one, the policy of ‘crony capitalism’ and, second, the ‘monetary aspect’ ever since money aplenty flowed into the hands of the landed, industrialised and governing classes. The prime minister should tell the nation how much burden the exchequer faced on account of his medical trip abroad.

The learned writer goes on to state that our present rulers have no iota of good sense and faith unlike the cherished saint of humanity, Abdus Sattar Edhi. One might find it interesting that reportedly in her last assignment as interior secretary, British PM Theresa May had claimed for reimbursement a sum of GBP 15,000 as ‘work related expenses’. For the likes of our own MNAs and MPAs, such an entitlement would be grossly insufficient. It is often remarked that a man lives and dies as per the standard he has laid down for himself. Edhi lived a humble life but died a hero in the nation’s hearts. Unfortunately, for the Punjabi ruling elite no lessons seem to have been learnt and it seems that the party must go on and on.

Abbas R Siddiqi

Lahore