Pakistan is now entangled in a complex situation of misinformation and political unrest. There is widespread speculation about the possibility of overthrowing the democratic system and establishing a new political party. After the PTI founder was declared not guilty in the cipher case, there are speculations circulating concerning the potential removal of other assembly members in Form 47 cases. These speculations threaten the delicate indications of economic revival in the nation.
The PTI’s assertive social media campaign against the Pakistan Army and Chief Justice of Pakistan, Justice Faiz Isa, seems to have a clear aim: to undermine the stability of the democratic system. Notwithstanding these provocations, the present military leadership has shown admirable restraint and tolerance, emphasizing that political issues should be settled by politicians, in conformity with constitutional and democratic norms.
Any harm inflicted against the democratic process would not be advantageous for Imran Khan. The ruling class has effectively immobilized the whole country to the point that it is quite unlikely for there to be any widespread mobilization for any cause.
The media campaign against state institutions, which involves the use of disintegration threats, is very alarming and intensifies the sense of division within the country.
During this unpredictable atmosphere, the Muslim League (N) and PPP, the two primary political parties, have not shown the necessary level of engagement on social media. PTI rejected the recent elections and is unwilling to participate in substantive discussions with political parties and the administration. This hesitancy prompts the inquiry: with whom do they want to engage in negotiations? Are they referring to the exact institutions they are accusing? Those who vandalized the monuments of martyrs?
The whole country has suffered the repercussions of supporting PTI, which is why the party experienced rejection in the recent elections. Pakistan’s worsening economic troubles have sparked widespread alarm among the government, industrialists, business community, and conscientious individuals. Pakistan is now under external pressure as it strives to stabilize its economy. Despite its backing for the US and its allies in the fight against terrorism, Pakistan is now in urgent need of a gas deal with Iran to address its energy issue. Nevertheless, the implementation of this accord is hindered by international sanctions, which underscore the existence of double standards. In the meanwhile, India has willingly entered many deals with Iran.
The Pakistani population is experiencing marginalization by dominant global forces, a situation that demands international recognition. Despite difficult circumstances, the government has lately implemented a decrease in the costs of gas and wheat nationwide.
Nevertheless, it seems that only Punjab is reaping the benefits of these reductions, while other provincial governments are neglecting to tackle inflation and price increases.
It is imperative for Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif to intervene and instruct provincial chief ministers to implement tangible measures to mitigate inflation. This encompasses the act of decreasing the costs of fares, bread, and bakery products, as well as transit tickets, to provide assistance to the whole population.
It is crucial for all political parties to come together and prioritize the interests of the state above their own particular objectives. Imran Khan, along with other political entities, must acknowledge that prioritizing the state is paramount and there can be no concessions on this fundamental premise. It is imperative for both the administration and the opposition to collaborate to fulfill the obligation of repaying the debt owed to Pakistan. Forging a functional alliance between the opposition and the government is crucial for reducing political tensions, ensuring efficient administration, and tackling urgent problems such as homelessness, inflation, currency devaluation, and shortages of electricity, water, and gas within a democratic framework.
Ultimately, the state must take precedence. Now is the moment for every political participant to transcend personal and partisan concerns and cooperate to guide Pakistan toward stability and prosperity. The state’s existence and development rely upon a cohesive coalition committed to safeguarding democratic principles and attending to the populace’s requirements.
The current surge of instability has underlying causes that extend beyond mere political maneuvering. The profound economic challenges of Pakistan intensify the political divisions, fostering an atmosphere conducive to the rapid dissemination of disinformation and falsehoods. The termination of assembly members and the exoneration in prominent instances further contribute to the climate of mistrust and conjecture. This lack of confidence hampers attempts to stabilize the economy, as firms and investors continue to be cautious about the political environment.
- Researcher at the University of Pisa, Italy.
- Postdoctoral Fellow, Global Engagement Academy, School of Culture and Communication, Shandong University (Weihai). Dr. Usman has participated in various national and international conferences and published 30 research articles in international journals.