Is Pakistan’s Establishment Aware of This?

A Nation’s Disillusionment

Throughout Pakistan’s history, there has existed a profound and almost sacred connection between its people and their establishment, an unspoken bond revered by many. This relationship, akin to a one-sided romance, saw the nation investing its trust and loyalty blindly, year after year. For 76 years, the establishment stood as the unchallenged authority, shrouded in narratives that were often fabricated to maintain control. The illusion of a unified direction was meticulously crafted and perpetuated. However, the events of April 09, 2022, marked a significant shift in this dynamic, revealing cracks in the facade that had long been hidden.

On April 10, 2022, Pakistan witnessed an unprecedented uprising. People flooded the streets, demanding the restoration of Imran Khan’s government, a clear signal of the nation’s discontent with the establishment’s actions. Instead of heeding this collective voice, the establishment chose to double down, veering further into authoritarianism. This decision set off a chain of events that would see the country grapple with internal strife and repression.

The Fall from Grace

Imran Khan’s Victimization

Imran Khan, a figure beloved by millions Pakistanis, became the focal point of the establishment’s crackdown. Once a national hero who brought the World Cup to Pakistan, built three cancer hospitals, and established top-tier universities, Khan’s fall from grace was as dramatic as it was unjust. Charged with over 200 alleged cases, he has been languishing in jail for more than ten months. His tenure as Prime Minister, marked by significant achievements, including his handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and his diplomatic successes, seemed to be forgotten.

Khan’s efforts to secure affordable resources from Russia, his leadership in Islamic summits, and his refusal to exploit his achievements for political gain, all highlighted his dedication to Pakistan. Yet, the establishment’s myopic vision could not recognize his true value. Instead, they waged a war against him, supporting known criminals and money launderers. These actions starkly contrasted with the will of the people, who had repeatedly rejected such figures, most notably in the February 08, 2024 general elections, where the establishment once again tampered with the results.

A Nation’s Rights Trampled

The Pakistani populace, numbering over 240 million, is neither blind nor subservient. They possess the inalienable rights to choose their leaders, to vote, and to express their opinions freely. The establishment’s continued suppression of these rights has only fueled resentment. Abductions, torture, and silencing of dissenters have become ordinary, actions more appropriate for responding to foreign agents rather than dealing with one’s own citizens.

This heavy-handed approach has created a chasm between the rulers and the ruled. The establishment’s actions, aimed at maintaining a grip on power, have instead sowed seeds of discord and disillusionment. The Pakistani people, resilient and aware, have begun to push back against this narrative.

Signs of a Deepening Gulf

 

Several unprecedented developments underscore the growing divide between the establishment and the people:

• Cricket Disillusionment: For the first time, Pakistanis seem more relieved when their cricket team loses rather than wins. This sentiment reflects a broader disenchantment with national symbols traditionally used to unify and rally the populace.
• Cultural Shifts: An anti-Pakistan Indian film, “Fighter,” which was a flop in India, topped the popularity charts on Pakistani Netflix. This phenomenon illustrates a shift in cultural preferences and a rejection of the establishment’s imposed narratives.
• Economic Independence: Pakistanis are now finding solace in the fact that the country is not receiving foreign aid or investment. This mindset marks a departure from dependency and highlights a desire for self-reliance.
• Regional Role Models: The development trajectories of neighboring countries like Iran, Afghanistan, India, and Bangladesh are increasingly seen as role models. This perspective shift indicates a loss of faith in domestic leadership and governance.

These changes, all emerging within the last two years, signal a profound transformation in the national psyche. The establishment’s actions have not only alienated the people but have also led them to seek alternatives and inspirations beyond their borders.

The Call for Change

The establishment’s failure to adapt and listen to the voices of its people has rendered its efforts futile. The attempts to control the narrative through censorship and repression have backfired, leading to greater disenchantment and resistance. The world watches and recognizes true leadership, character, and integrity, regardless of attire or superficial appearances.

For Pakistan to move forward, it is imperative that those in power acknowledge the growing discontent and take meaningful steps to bridge the gap. The nation is no longer willing to accept the status quo, and the establishment must realize that its continued survival hinges on its ability to respect and restore the democratic rights of its people.

The time has come for introspection and change. The one-man show that has dictated the fate of Pakistan for so long must end. Only by embracing genuine democracy, transparency, accountability and rule of law can the nation heal and progress. The world respects leaders who exhibit self-control, character, and a genuine commitment to their people. It is high time for the establishment to embody these qualities and steer the country toward a future that honors the will of its citizens.