Insanity: doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results. Albert Einstein
We all know that Pakistan’s overall situation has been dedeteriorating for decades and it has entered a critical phase. And, regretfully, it seems that there is nothing that is going to reverse the tide in Pakistan.Therefore, people are asking – can democracy work in Pakistan? I don’t know the answer, but it sure seems that the overall mood in the country is awfully sour and if things didn’t change, which they can’t, people would come out on the streets demanding answers, but in reality, it would be a call for the army to come forward and take over. This is exactly how it has happened in the past and if Pakistan’s past is any guide as how Pakistan is going to move forward, it seems that the history is about to repeat itself.
But, can army change or improve anything? Once again, history tells us, no, army can’t do anything. However, this vicious cycle of democracy and dictatorship in Pakistan has made it possible to dream about ‘help’ and the public has started hearing the boots. And, who can blame the generals? It is very tempting to suggest that Pakistan is in danger of disintegrating; military operations in N.W.F.P and Baluchistan, diminishing water and electricity, stagnant economy, multiplying foreign debt, out of control inflation, lack of jobs for alarmingly naive and unprepared youth for today’s complex business environment and a government that is fighting for its life and survival. Therefore, the stage is set for a savior –
Dieu merci!
By the way, those who think that the West won’t accept or deal with ‘men in uniform’ are about to get a lesson in Cambia priorità because after tough statements and angry press releases, everyone in Washington, London, Berlin, Paris and Riyadh is going to accept the case of intervention and all will back to normal.
Given Pakistan’s history, I don’t entirely blame Zardari and Gilani for their upcoming unceremonious packing from Islamabad. Actually, it is impossible to govern Pakistan and no one has been able to leave gracefully either from the Prime Minister House or from the President’s House in Pakistan. I hope I am wrong and the current government completes its term, but, it seems highly unlikely.
So, people of Pakistan, be prepared to be saved, again!
“Friends, Romans, countrymen, lend me your ears; I come to bury Caesar, not to praise him”. – (Julius Ceasar Act III, Scene II).
Bilal Qureshi
Washington, DC
