Zimbabwe's Election 2018 - My Take!

I have a feeling that the Zimbabwe's  establishment might favor Mnagagwa in the elections. This could affect Chamisa's chances. Robert Mugabe the former strongman backs Chamisa as well because Mnagagwa dislodged mugabe in a bloodless coup with the help of Army. Mnagagwa is a ruthless leader and is known as 'crocodile'. However,this is a transformative election in the history of Zimbabwe. I hope it is peaceful and the country emerges stronger from the shadows of previous regimes..

My Vote Goes to!

  Pakistan's General Elections 2018

Followed the narratives of various parties in general elections 2018 campaign. Deliberately delayed my decision to wait for better options. Hence, i concluded that i will vote on 25th July for Imran Khan and PTI because:

·         There exists only one leader on the political landscape of Pakistan who commands loyalty, love and respect from the masses due to his clean image. Has properties and stakes in Pakistan only. However, they are modest in comparison to other wealthy politicians but he declared them all with the evidences of how he attained them in the judiciary. Appreciated!

·         I believe he will undertake empowered foreign policy decisions without any influence from any one, be it internal or external forces. I am looking forward to it.

·         He focused on education, health and police in KP. Well done. The fruits of such much needed reforms will bear fruit in next few years and we are already witnessing positive outcomes. 

·         Reforms in judiciary by fully supporting the pillar of the state through financial and legal backing will allow the institutions to perform effectively through vital judicial reforms and also enhancing its capacity. Pending cases may be swiftly handled in minimum available. I hope PTI will take a cooperative course in regards to state pillars such as judiciary rather than taking it on. This will surely strengthen the institutions and democracy. 

·         Land reforms could also facilitate the local populace. Quite a basic demand and effective steps are awaited. I believe PTI has the vision to undertake them. Records must be digitalized and important documents must be made available online.

·         I have full faith in the expertise of Mr Asad Umar (PTI's shadow finance minister) credentials. With the help of other financial wizards in the country, he could give the right direction to the economy and lessen the debt burden through astute financial policies. I am very much excited to see for the first time, the economy being handled by the right people for the right job. 

·         He talks about cleansing corruption and tirelessly struggled for 22 years. 

·         He promises to rebuild the institutions and give them autonomy to work without enduring political influence. I don’t mind if he employs best minds from abroad or inside Pakistan. I guess he may seek help from skilled Pakistani entrepreneurs abroad to implement some much needed reforms and give the PIA, Steel mills and other with the right direction. Khan! Go ahead we are with you.

·         He has plans for water and power projects. Most importantly, he is eyeing hydel projects that could produce cost effective and cheap power that could be sustained by household consumers and industries

·         Plans for clean drinking water and eradicating malnourishment. I totally endorse and supporting in the hope that promises must be fulfilled

·         Ambitious plans for unemployed youth of the country. This will indirectly have a positive impact on the security of the country because a disenchanted youth could be inclined towards subversive activities

·         Housing revolution is on the cards. In the age of real estate boom, i believe he could achieve the ambitious calculated housing projections. That will emancipate the poor and give them shelter. The most basic necessity

·         I support his vision of local bodies’ empowerment through diverting most funds to lower levels with a robust accountability mechanism. In my view local bodies can bring about the real micro-level change if utilized effectively. Someone who want to direct his energies attains my vote. I believe PTI is that party.

Above all issues are critical in nature. However, as a voter, i have confidence in Khan led PTI's ability to lead the country towards these ideals. Once we start our journey towards these goals, we will see that those goals will get closer than ever. 

Note: If the party fails to deliver on its promises, i will be the first to vote them out of parliament in next general elections. I will be constantly reminding the elected representatives and the leadership to fulfill their promises. No rocket science involved here. We reject mental slavery and personality worship. Those who deliver will stay and others will fizzle out. 

This nation has to vote wisely and then work hard to enhance its prestige nationally and internationally by owning the motherland

 Pakistan Zindabad!

Afghan President Ashraf Ghani's offer to the Taliban

I have been analyzing the Afghan conflict  from different perspectives. A perception do exist regarding the return to the 90s era of extreme laws governing the Afghan state. President Ghani's offer to Taliban in current circumstances, seems like a frustrated attempt to finally mend ways with the militant outfit recognizing the fact that Taliban are actively governing almost 40-60 percent of Afghanistan (mostly rural areas).Taliban Control: Main highways and arteries are under their influence. The Afghan state is hampered by infighting amongst ethnic groups and a demoralized army can not sustain the challenges of assymetric warfare from Taliban and ISIS.Opportunity in Disguise: In the back ground of prevailing facts, reconciliation with Taliban is something that could be termed as positive subject to certain conditions. Afghanistan alongwith Pakistan is being discussed as the transit corridor for central asia energy and goods export to south Asia, middle east, Europe and Africa. North South Trade Corridor (NSTC) will be highly effective if stability ensues in Afghanistan. I am optimistic purely on economic grounds.

TAPI, CASA 1000, connecting Herat Kandahar, Quetta, Gwadar and mazar sharif, kabul, Peshawar highways are essential for the land locked state. I am looking at a huge flow of investment coming after the stability of Afghanistan in conenction with energy, trade and transit infrastructure.

Red Lines: Protection of the women rights and constitution must never be compromised. giving political identification to Afghan Taliban can be the best decision in current scenario on many grounds.  I believe if the economics play its trick, gradually everything will fall in its place. Taliban are also transformed and the fact they can never control the cities owing to ISAF presence in Afghanistan heavily influenced their thinking. They will also be willing to move on consciously after learning some hard lessons. 

Better Control on Narco Trade: I am no fan of Taliban but after one verdict of Mullah omer, the world witnessed the narco trade (biggest source of terror financing) ceased to exist across Afghanistan.

United front Against ISIS: Another opportunity arising from a negotiated settled would be the focus on eliminating ISIS (non afghan entity- very important fact) with renewed focus.

Fears and Insecurities: In the hind sight, we can always discuss negative consequences for the Afghan polity in general. It is heartbreaking to see Afghanistan which is not even a shadow of its past. However, baby steps like the above must be taken to avoid total collapse of the society at large. Undermining the Great Game at the Cost of Afghanistan Should be Avoided: The negotiated settlement will shrink space for outsiders (Afghanistan is in the middle of great game Indo- US vs Russia, China, Iran, Pakistan and certain central Asian Republics). The US presence is no longer attached to nation building but to counter the interests of the opponent camp. This battle is not favoring Afghanistan.  Realization on Part of Pakistan: I also want to mention the role of Pakistan's military establishment. I feel there seems to be a consensus on supporting Afghan led peace process while playing an assisting role if required rather than influencing the process for its own interest. Pakistan wants a strong, secure and friendly Afghanistan. The only concern remains the creeping influence of India to present a two front situation from Afghan-Pakistan border to destabilize Pakistan which needs to be looked after. 

Use of Electronic Media for Creating Sensationalism and Commercialism in Ramzan

Ramzan is a holy month that inculcates the spirit of patience, closeness to the creator and purifying the soul. The media has a positive use of disseminating information and creating awareness. It is a tool to craft the character of a nation. With the rapid growth of electronic media, a sudden race for ratings has ensued. Every channel tries to bring about new flavor bypassing the true spirit of the holy month. The religion is used as a marketing tool to earn revenues while forgetting its true essence. Plethora of game shows are to be seen on our television channels often stuffed with crude jokes, gift competitions where audience may do anything immoral to attain gifts. Many media experts are of the view that the logic of Ramzan being a month of generosity is totally defied by value of greed and vanity. The study is focused on discussing the transformation from knowledge based programs to 24 hours entertainment shows during the past years, what demerits has these transmissions brought on national character and morality while presenting concrete suggestive measures in order to improve the situation.

The format of the Ramzan Transmission

•  Before Iftar

The reality Ramzan transmissions start in sehri time and continue well after sehri is served.

•  Continue During the Fast

The marathon transmission continues during the fast and airs different segments ranging from palmistry, inviting showbiz personalities and couples, cooking and performances on stage.

• Transmission Continues Way Past Iftar Time

The Game shows normally start after Ramzan and continues till late night. Free gift hampers are distributed through various game shows and quizzes. Companies advertise their brands by sponsoring the gifts to audience. The audience indulge in crude antics to attain the gifts ranging from stuffing mangoes, touching snakes and find the partner while their eyes closed. These kind of games are very popular among the audience.

Flaws attached with these shows

Lack of Content

Comparing the past programs in Ramzan one could attain some knowledge. One can argue that these shows were slightly boring but still the content of programs was much better and knowledgeable. The current shows have no taste apart from being an event to have fun and play different games. With the exception of few scholars, most of them are just invited to fulfill the requirement. These scholars are all paid whereas they have multiple contracts with different channels. The inspiration cannot be attained by watching Ramzan transmissions currently. The game shows particularly exhibit crudeness and immense greed.

Current Trend of Treating Ramzan as a “Marketing Tool”

The multinational companies and other corporate enterprises cash on the month by sponsoring the game shows with exorbitant gifts. The goal of these actions is not merely generosity but the need to advertise their products through these tactics. The companies fully understand the crudeness of such transmissions but profit and money matters the most rather than maintain the essence of holy month. The audience has also developed this tendency of winning easy gifts while surrendering their respect. The fasting entail the spirit of controlling one’s greed and desires but the onslaught of game shows and vanity portrayed by such shows limit these guiding principles. The only thing that matters in these shows is winning a gift such as motorcycle, 12 tola gold or merely a Gul Ahmad suit.

Brand Wars and the Issues of Class Deprivations

The values of brotherhood and benevolence is discarded by various channels. The transmissions often boast about their popularity and most viewed status. Furthermore, the brands such as Pepsi, Coca Cola tailor their product with food. The lack of concern for poor people who can’t afford lavish food can be ascertained from food ads where deals are offered to customers without taking into consideration the segment who can only wish to attain these deals. This has profound effects on society and increase sense of deprivation among the poor segments of society and create unrealistic ideals. The channels are interested in increasing their revenues and does not concern any regard for religious sentiment. The example of spat between two hosts of Ramzan transmission is just a recent example. Aamir Liaquat (a popular Ramzan transmission host) and Fahad Mustafa (Host of another Ramzan TV show) both traded remarks about being the best in the business. This competition for ratings overshadow the essence of the holy month of Ramzan.

The Essence of Modesty and Simplicity is ignored

We are taught to adopt the virtues manifested by Ramzan such as modesty and simplicity but these ideals can be easily forgotten when religion gets exploited for commercialism. The electronic media try to hire anchors that does not sync with the image of the holy month of Ramzan and have controversial reputation in media. The use of crude jokes and personal banters in these transmissions are often coated under the garb of entertainment.

Ramzan Transmissions as a Distraction

The Ramzan marathon transmissions is one of the reason due to which audience are entangled to the TV screens while the most important part of offering prayers and meditation to get closer to God is put to the backburner. The religious scholars come on the show portraying themselves as the sole authority on complex issues of Islam and often indulge in controversies. The theme of the religion sections of Ramzan transmission is often monotonous and does not increase one’s knowledge. The household chores are left till the end in anticipation of colorful transmissions on TV often studded with showbiz personalities appearing in extravagant dresses.

Conflicting Solutions of religious issues

When it comes to religion, Pakistan is home to diverse school of thoughts and sects. Each segment has a different and often divergent views on a particular religious issue. The lack of Ijma (consensus) among scholars give rise to differences of opinion on particular issues. The channels often patronizes a school of thought professed by their owners therefore, the views from opposite segment is often chided or dismissed. The use of media in Ramzan for religious arguments and controversies is the reason for further polarizing the nation as well as the Ummah.

The Famous Controversies Surrounding Ramzan Transmissions

Veena Malik Appearing on Ramzan Show

Veena Malik is popular figure due to her controversial reputation. She rose to prominence by participating in an Indian reality TV show “Big Boss”. She was criticized in Pakistan for her immoral demeanor by scholars and clerics. She signed up for Ramzan transmission TV show called “Astagfaar” on Hero TV the previous year. This show gained negative popularity, however, it became a viral news overnight due to Veena’s controversial image. The audience were rather intrigued to see this avatar of her personality considering her weak command on religious affairs. The TV channel utilized this cheap publicity stunt to familiarize their brand among the masses.

The Curious Case of Aamir Liaquat

A war of words took new turn when a popular Ramzan transmission host Aamir Liaquat Hussain described Jamshed as blasphemer. After few days Junaid Jamshed was attacked by a violent mob at Islamabad Airport. Fortunately, the celebrity went unhurt in the incident. The spat was subsequently eased after Junaid Jamshed called the person and explained his point of view on a religious matter. Considering the assassination of Salman Taseer, this behavior could have endangered the accused celebrity’s life owing to emotional affiliation by people and rising devotion in Ramzan.

Aamir Liaquat has also tried different attention seeking methods to entertain people such as stuffing mangoes in audiences’ mouth and donating baby child as a prize. The latter incident incident gained coverage internationally and Aamir Liaqat was censured as lacking taste and belittling the worth of human being to a mere prize gift.

The latest stunt is the announcement of giving three airplanes for the first time in a Ramzan game show on BOL TV. Many people are anxiously waiting to see if that is true or not.

Aamir Liaqat’s Ramzan Show

The reality Ramzan Transmission host Aamir Liaqat’s new publicity stunt. He announced giving away 3 airplanes to winners of the game show as a prize.

Aamir Liaqat targeted Junaid Jamshed with vulgar remarks

Aamir Liaqat Hussain famously giving away babies in a live Ramzan Transmission

Aamir Liaqat crude joke of stuffing mango on the participant’s face

Hamza Ali Abbassi Discussing Controversial Topics on Ramzan Special Transmission

The host often directs the discussion to a particular direction similar to current affairs programme and reach a predetermined conclusion. The controversy of Hamza Ali Abbasi is a vivid example. He was given a warning by Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (PEMRA) and subsequently banned from hosting a show due to discussing the sensitive topic in a Ramzan transmission relating to the status of Ahmadis as outlawed sect of Islam. Other scholars have also been guilty of raising the emotions of innocent Muslims too. The discussion on blasphemy has resulted in increased violence across the country.

Hamza Ali Abbasi on the set of controversial Ramzan transmission

Are the Producers Only at Fault? What About the Audience?

The responsibility also lies on the audience and participants of these shows too. They exhibit uncivilized behavior while participating in the Ramzan game shows. To win a mere gift hamper, both men and women act in a ridiculous manner. The virtues of modesty, humbleness or Islamic teachings are set aside for intrinsic benefits. The hosts make fun of the people on the sets of these shows while the participants are blinded by the greed of getting a gift hamper, hence forefeet their self-respect and integrity. However these antics garner immense TV ratings which brings revenue for the producers and TV channels.

Furthermore, some participants enjoy the few seconds of limelight which they can brag about afterwards with their friends and family.

The Way Forward

The following measures may be taken to reinvigorate the true essence of the holy month of Ramzan through electronic Media:

• Instead of splashing the lavish gifts on Ramzan transmission game shows, the focus may be given to Pakistan’s leading philanthropists and organizations. The companies may be encouraged to partner with them to fulfill the dreams of deserving individuals rather than enthusiastic game show participants. The gifts and cash prize money may be donated among orphanages and hospitals. This step may still achieve the goal of advertising the company brands however the society will immensely benefit from it.

• There is no doubt that Pakistan is an entertainment hungry country and sources of entertainment is very limited. However efforts can be made to ensure the content of the Ramzan transmissions qualifies the standards and less repulsive to the audience.

• PEMRA can work with the media houses to address these concerns rather than giving mere notifications against such shows while tacitly approving it due to non-implementation.

• The companies should take responsibility for respecting the holy month as well. Sponsorships to programs should be done after thorough vetting. The programs airing crude and tasteless content may not be sponsored by the companies. Certain recommendations may be included in view of the sanctity of the holy month.

• The media houses should take into account the credibility of the anchors and guests during Ramzan transmission and controversial figures and topics should be excused. The holy month should not be used to spread hatred or make a mockery of the holy month of Ramzan.

• The media shapes the social fabric of society. The mediocre program material diminishes the prestige of the industry. Therefore, our media industry must assume the leadership role and ascertain future line of action in regards to content regarding Ramzan.

• Audience should also behave with dignity and respect. The over enthusiasm and crude behavior during the game shows diminishes their standing. Furthermore, preference should be given to utilize the time for seeking the true purpose of the holy month by indulging in social work or praying to get closer to the creator.

• In view of the charged environment post Mashal Khan lynching and other such incidents, the anchors should refrain from discussing sensitive issues if they lack proper scholarship. The issues of blasphemy, sectarian and inter-religious discord should be avoided.

Conclusion

The recent wave of Ramzan transmission are influenced by monetary benefits. The hosts of various Ramzan game shows display crude behavior while mostly concerned for the TV ratings. The audience are driven by the greed to win gifts while caring less about their dignity and respect. Therefore audience needs to realize this and make necessary amends. The content of the show is substandard and needs efforts to improve its quality.  Our media should show maturity and determine a future course of action regarding Ramzan transmissions as current content is sensational rather than informational. Hosts should be selected after thorough vetting by the respective media houses and controversial figures should be excused.  The anchors should refrain from discussing sensitive issues if they lack proper scholarship. As responsible corporate entities, the companies should refrain from sponsoring the substandard Ramzan transmissions. Rather than giving away free prizes in game shows for rating, the gifts and cash prize money may be donated among orphanages and hospitals by the corporate entities. This step may still accomplish the objective of promotion the brands however the society will enormously benefit from it. 

Current affairs update (29 Jan 2016)

• Health shambles in Punjab

The recent death of a woman  on the corridors of Jinnah hospital in Lahore due to non availability of beds in the government hospitals. She was turned down by three different hospitals in Lahore for such basic resource non availability. The chief minister Punjab has displayed his trademark style with a suspension order of the superintendent hospital.

But lets cross-examine who is the real culprit?

The nurse who did not know proper beginners treatment for a heart attack patient. The ambulance driver who did not have the dexterity to take the victim to properly equipped tertiary care hospital.

The pharmacist who gave the patient expired medicines to control blood pressure. The doctor was absent from his duty in district hospital kasur.

The private hospitals lacking proper medical specialists or equipment to take care of such emergencies.

The provincial health ministry who fail to give salaries to doctors on time subsequently forcing these poor souls to collect it from secretariat.

The PMDC who has the authority of postings but no mechanism to monitor them.

The finance ministry who  fail to adequately finance health services in kasur.

Punjab health care commission for it has the responsibility to regulate all public and private hospitals and ensure minimum service delivery across all medical setups under PHC Act 2010.

The technical consultants who made the tertiary setup separate from rest of district government leaving it under the radar of scrutiny and hence people rush to city hospitals which become overburdened.

Chief minister because he has a reputable reform team and technical consultants and financed by world bank with 150 million $ to ensure such minimum facilities are ensured at least.

PTI as a premier opposition in Punjab failed to play its part in Punjab health reform committee and constructive criticism.

Parliament committees for health service regulations, human rights, P & D reforms committee and oversight committee.  Its inability to hold government accountable.

http://www.dawn.com/news/1311414/whose-fault

• Raheel sharif , Disappearances and Panama leaks

The PML-N government was reluctant for a showdown with then army chief raheel sharif because of his glory and firm grip on the scene.  He was invincible and highly approved. The PML-N wanted to settle scores with cheap-shots like opening Pandora box of his alleged deal  with Saudis for assuming the mantle of muslim force under the kingdom auspices. This held the general back and then ensued silence on the issue. The recent land awarding also came under scrutiny and ISPR then had to come up and shrug off the matter as malicious conjecture and went on to say that it has the potential to disrupt cool civil military relations.

The state has unleashed its muscles on disappeared bloggers too. The returnees came back with silence and good manners towards the establishment. This aspect is particularly disturbing and has serious consequences for a robust democratic society. Mullah  had already patrolled the religious frontiers and now we are watching the ideological frontiers “protected” by the chaps.

The government of nawaz sharif behaves rudely after consolidating its grip on power and makes ridiculous blunders. PTI comes as an insurgent and hardly familiar with parliamentary experience but PML-N should have learnt its lessons. Both parties are obsessed with each other.  

Supreme court has been dragged in this political hot seat by two of its outgoing CJ’s who had a glory of their own on their mind, but things got messed up.  The present court is trying ahrd to be impartial and attempting to cool down both parties but all efforts are going in vain.

http://www.dawn.com/news/1311413/shabbiness-all-round

• Rational take on regional connectivity

Pakistan is a part of two important alliances SCO and SAARC. SAARC has been unutilized and idle for maximum time since its inception and had not achieved anything worthwhile for the people of south asia. This is the reason why many member are losing interest in this organization. Srilanka and Bangladesh are inclined to join ASEAN. The indopak tensions have never allowed this forum to really take off. In part india has been responsible for this situation too. It has been recently trying to outcast Pakistan in the region and make bay of Bengal alliances with regional countries for economic and technical cooperation.

China has a great opportunity to extend the vision of xi jingping’s OBOR with US withdrawing from Tran pacific partnership. The world is realigning itself. The TPP countries are pondering on making another regional cooperation pact to safeguard its interests from the influence of dominant china.

Pakistan needs to be pragmatic with its thinking.

Joining new alliances like 39 member security alliance under Saudi patronage will not be a bad decision provided it transforms into a political and economic organization too. Furthermore IRAN our immediate neighbor must not be alienated for out gains and be held close because there is a lot of potential in Pak-IRAN relations which needs to be exploited. Pakistan can also partner with sea border countries like Oman, Muscat, Iran, uae, srilanka, Maldives to make close ties. In the western side we need to get our act straight with Afghanistan to reap full benefits for opportunities provided by CPEC under OBOR. Similarly friendly ties with USA and Europe is also essential. The diversification of our economic policies is need of the hour.

http://www.dawn.com/news/1311412/a-vision-of-connectivity

• FATA merger with civilization!

FATA is described by various US military and political experts as the hotbed of extremism and a potential launchpad for potential 9/11 in future. In that situation, the region will be hugely destabilized. Therefore its imperative to focus on this region to make it at par with rest of the country.

Recent fata reforms envisage this dream which is nearing its fulfillment. PML-N government deserves applause for upholding their manifesto of mainstreaming FATA, a demand which other governments failed to deliver on. FATA is extremely poor. It has a devastated education, water supply and health system. The section 247 of our constitution says that no part of its constitution will apply to fata. This must be repealed. Section 40 of FCR gives powers to political agent to imprison a person for three years without any given reason which is extremely inhumane. This must be rubbished immediately. FCR 1901 permits collective punishment, again its inhumane and must go.

FATA reforms committee has put forward some complementary recommendations which needs to be implemented side by side. These are parallel and concurrent judicial, economic and political reforms. RS 750 million are marked for 13 irrigation projects to start with. Government has promised to include 100 billion rupees for FATA in next NFC award. This will speed up the merger of fata with KP.

People of FATA has endured huge injustices in the past. The time is right to bring it back into the fabric of settled areas and give it a chance to prosper and contribute in a stable and strong Pakistan.

 https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/182494-Fata-reforms

• Hate speech

Hate speech on media and politicians hurling horrendous allegations is the not a new norm in this godforsaken country, the Islamic republic of Pakistan.

Aamir liaqat saga is looking in sync with the plummeting standards of our media houses hungry for ratings and controversies to cash on. The news has become a business. It actually kills the purpose of awareness and informing the audience.

Recent disappearances of bloggers has badly tarnished the image of our country internationally. After NAP, it was expected that after peace prevails, saner voices will flourish more confidently but sadly it’s the complete opposite.

Government on its part has never checked on the hate mongers in media and tacitly approved on some occasion for political convenience. They have also found a way to safeguard their mandate in next general elections by building infrastructure. Recent Multan metro is a glaring example of its fool proof planning.  

Recently a Chinese diplomat Lijian Zhao remarked in an economist story:

“ China is all too aware that Pakistan needs more than just big-ticket infrastructure if it is to flourish. Disarmingly, he praises the efforts of Britain and other countries to improve Pakistan’s ‘software’ such as education and rule of law. ‘But China’s expertise is hardware’, says Mr Zhao”.

To sum up, physical and material development is incomplete without intellectual development. We need to work on it urgently and stop the factories of hate and darkness who threaten our prosperity and sanity.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/182492-Trumpets-of-hate

• Governance, corruption and foreign interference history

It is imperative to think on the  lines of what we can give to our country rather than pondering upon what the country gave to us. This mindset can turn the fortunes of or country . 

South Korea and Singapore had the same socio-economic conditions as Pakistan in 1960’s but the elected prime minister of Singapore Lee Kuan yew and military leader mr park led their country to economic revival and currently Singapore's per capita income is 51000$ while south Korea's per capita income is 35000$ while Pakistan's per capita income is only 1500$. 

We had experiments with military as well as democracy but both failed to deliver because the spirit of giving to the country rather than taking was absent.  The leader of South Korea general park died with less than 1000 $ in bank account while Singapore's leader was a beacon of integrity and institutionalized accountability. This is the reason that Singapore has been constantly ranked  in least corrupt countries by the world bank. Both leaders did not have bank accounts abroad.  The Singapore and south Korea passport holder can visit 170 countries visa free while green passport is ranked as 2^nd worst in the world recently.

Facts speak for themselves. The givers will work to improve their country’s condition while takers will improve their personal wealth at the expense of their motherland!

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/182493-Makers-and-takers

• Indus water treaty

Modi’s recent visit to poll-bound Punjab is noteworthy for his scathing criticism on Indus water treaty and assuring people of the maximum usage of water used by Pakistan to its own benefit. Although we can dismiss these remarks as political rants but in reality India has been digging options on how to divert the water resources in their favor entitled for Pakistan. 

The Indus water treaty’s unilateral withdrawal will result in Pakistan going to international court of justice and in all likelihood, can pull of a victory to the disgrace of a belligerent India. World bank being a guarantor will never support any adventurism by any party in this regard.

In the face of such tensions, Pakistan need to bring its own house in order. PPP’s chief minister in Sindh remarked he will never allow kalabagh dam to be constructed is a negative and malicious. The opportunity to preserve and store water is the key to prosperity of the country and any such endeavor to make storage facilities must be encouraged rather than scoring cheap political points.

http://nation.com.pk/editorials/29-Jan-2017/water-wars

•   Pakistan steel mills woes

Pakistan steel mills and PIA are both incurring heavy losses to state exchequer with its sluggish performance. Although PIA is still in working conditions, PSM has been dragging its feet to the ground and burying under its own weight. PSM owes 415 billion to its employees and defaulted debts, while 166 billion unpaid liabilities on its shoulders.  

PSM  is performing at 8 % capacity which is inducing the government to import to make up  for the failure of PSM to fulfill the demand.

Under these circumstances the government gave a go ahead to privatize PSM for 45 years to a third party company. This decision has been abruptly set aside by Cabinet committee on privatization CcOP headed by finance minister Ishaq dar.

The government is trying to reinvigorate the white elephant in the hope that it will start performing efficiently. This is nothing but a noble thinking but flawed in practical application as previous government had also planned and failed in same endeavor. Therefore without wasting much time, a long lasting remedy is required.

http://nation.com.pk/editorials/29-Jan-2017/the-pakistan-steel-mills-problem

•  Trump's "Extreme vetting"

 The romance between Pakistan and new trump administration which began with congratulatory phone call to incoming president ended when trump called for extreme scrutiny of people coming from Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Afghanistan. How can the relations be cordial and friendly when our people are no longer welcome.

It may not come as a surprise to many given trump’s controversial remarks in presidential campaign. He constantly use Islamic radical terrorism as a foreign policy tool. Time to look out for new alignments with countries like Russia, the nexus with china and other like minded countries to counter threat from alliances between India and USA.

 http://nation.com.pk/editorials/28-Jan-2017/extreme-vetting

• Right to information bill 2016

The senate committee recommended 10 clauses for approval concerning right to information bill 2016. This include on application procedure for information retrieval, computerizing the existing data,  and a complaint and review body which will look if the information is sensitive or not. 

Foremost is the fact that sensitive material definition is discussed as to what makes the info sensitive. Indeed a sensible approach.

Although data related to placement of weapons or military plans are out of questions but the general masses deserve to get information on all other matters concerning the usage of their taxpayer’s money.Now the need of the hour is to expedite the process and make the state responsible for its expenditure.

http://nation.com.pk/editorials/27-Jan-2017/the-right-information

•  Health care in Punjab

Shehbaz Sharif has asserted that Punjab healthcare system will be revamped soon.  He has termed current system as ‘cruel’. This is particularly self contradicting because for the past 10 years PML-N government is at the helm of power so they are equally responsible for these shambles.

Punjab government has promised to modernize 40 (THQ’S & DHQ’s) by june 2017 with new equipment and competent staff hiring.

Opposition hurled scathing criticism at Shehbaz Sharif and remarked that the Punjab speed of construction is absent when we look at the performance of health ministry in the province.If Sharif is sincere in bringing about real change and cruise past criticism, healthcare is the starting point.

http://nation.com.pk/editorials/27-Jan-2017/punjab-healthcare-debate

• Youth: An asset but how?

Pakistan is a country with a pool of 50 million young people between 18-25  ages. Proper youth policy needs to be devised like the developed countries i.e Japan, Australia,New Zealand, Switzerland and so on. 

Our youth jobless rate is 8.2 % which is very high. Diseases like anxiety and depression are very come due to non channeling of energy in positive things. Subsequently they are enticed to the world of crimes, immorality , drugs and even terrorism. Therefore government needs to chalk out a cohesive plan to make productive use of these  assets and not  making them as a liability in future.  

Our youth policy needs to be developed keeping in mind the following factors:

Foreign expertise need to be acquired to chalk out successful plans for long lasting effects.

Secondly psychologists and counselors needed to be provided in every hospital to treat the depression and anxieties of such disenchanted youth and channel them in a positive direction and give them a sense of purpose.

Thirdly government need to take care of the nutritional demands of youth and make sure that food is clean and healthy for intake. Sports and carnivals be arranged and introduce other sports like football, swimming, badminton and squash should also be promoted along with cricket and hockey.

http://nation.com.pk/columns/28-Jan-2017/where-is-pakistan-s-national-youth-policy

• Durand line

On 26 July 1949, afghan government declared Durand line as illegal and imaginary thereby withdrawing from any previous agreements. Pakistan on its part has always emphasized that under article 4 and 5 of initial agreements and later agreements all makes it clear that a border was demarcated and afgan government received frequent subsidies which implies the acceptance of the border.

Afghan elite argue that their clan is divided across Durand line. The reality is that afghans constitute 42 million and have 60 distinct tribes and 400 sub clans. So thereby it has always been a scattered tribal society for centuries and never lived as cohesive units.

Pakistan has endured refugee problems contracted through Afghanistan. It has generously hosted a huge afghan diaspora for 3 decades but were met with hostility and skirmishes on border.

With the rise of Ashraf Ghani it was hope that relations will move towards improvement but since then we have seen a downturn in relations.  Both countries hurled accusations of destabilizing the countries. Furthermore Afghanistan has aligned with India, which has consulates along pak afghan border and helping ttp and Baloch insurgents with financial, military and strategic planning. Afghanistan has blamed Pakistan for harboring Haqqani network which is responsible for attacks on Afghanistan.

Pakistan after observing lacklustre reply from afghan government for border management has moved to fence the border in order to curtail cross border terrorism from afghan side.

Mr Latif Pedram, chairman of NCPA has stressed ghani administration to knock international court of justice with legal documents or accept the border. If NCPA comes into power, it is expected to be friendly towards good relations between two neighboring countries and the region will ultimately benefit. This is the need of the hour to improve bilateral relations and move from the quagmire of history and start a fresh chapter devoid from animosity.

http://nation.com.pk/columns/28-Jan-2017/durand-line-saga

• ·         End of globalization or not?

After assuming office trump signed executive orders barring immigrants from seven countries, on obamacare and also revamped plans for keystone and Dakota access pipelines. Trump has threatened mexico to pay for the border wall. Mexico flatly refused but trump repeated by saying it will have to pay for it one way or the other , giving rise to suggestions of economic wars with neighbouring mexico.

Trump has also backed off from Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP). The indication of renegotiating NAFTA is also on the cards and bilateral trade deals with other countries like Britain, Russia and India is on the cards.

Although these steps suggests protectionism and a departure from free world free movement concept, where America was its staunch supporter, Chinese president Xi Jingping has come forward and accepted the mantle of global leadership, its commitment to globalization and climate deals in paris.

Therefore it is too early to declare the end of globalization.

http://tribune.com.pk/story/1309842/globalisation-beginning-end/

World affairs update (28 Jan 2016)

• Afghan refugee dilemma

The afghan refugee problem has been a bone of contention for Pakistan and Afghanistan. There are about 1.5 million registered refugees and almost 1 million unregistered living inside Pakistan. They are given a deadline till march 2017 to return to their homes. These deadlines have been extended in the past but this time the resolve seems to be firm. Provincial governments especially kp is in the forefront to expel these refugees who fled their country for their lives.The main charges from KP government is that afghans contribute in high crime rate in province, but facts suggests that afghans make up only 1 percent of the crimes in the province. UNHCR has been encouraging refugees to return for a 400 dollar compensation which is widely criticized by human rights organizations. Pakistan for its part is also overburdned with meagre resources at their disposal and a lacklustre support from international community. A look at the region, we see Tehran sending afghan refugees with brisk pace. similarly Europe is also expected to expel them steadily. This will complicate teh matter for afghan government reeling with insurgency from Taliban and IS plus different warring groups fighting in different provinces. Afghan leadership should also show an element of thankfulness to Pakistan for hosting refugees for such a long time over burdening its resources. This will create an environment of goodwill and understanding between two neighboring countries.

http://tribune.com.pk/story/1308021/afghan-refugee-population-dilemma/

• Modi: Rise of cult figure

india is celebrating its 70th republic day. India has achieved much more in those 70 years for which its founding fathers will be proud of. One of the many things to take pride will be the continuation of democracy in a demographically diverse country. 
But recent republic day begs to remind India of the fact that its a multicultural society. The recent rise in cult of modi has seriously damaged this proposition. Already in some states modi is being taugh as a harbinger of self made endurance and struggle.. Congress has lost its ground and conceded defeat.Although nitish kumar and mumta banerjee has the potential to stop the tide of extremism and fascism but they are mostly contented to play on their own turf. Aam admi party has shown some prospects but its relevance is only around Delhi and metro areas. This is the reason why a surge in communalism has hit sky high. These factors are a major threat to republic of india today which must be dealt with.

https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/181934-Growing-threats-to-the-idea-of-India

• Trump and rising Xenophobia in USA

Trump surprisingly living up to his reputation of being tough on migrants. His 2 executive orders targeting them is a testament to this fact. Trump has plans to:
Build a wall along 1200 miles southern border
asked justice department to provide more immigration dealing judges
Plans to increase the size and powers of ice agents
Lifting funding from sanctuary camps
Aftermath of such moves:
Contradiction of un conventions on refugees
rise in xenophobia

https://www.theguardian.com/us-news/2017/jan/26/trump-immigration-border-detention-migrants-catch-release

• Trump to revive torturing inmates

Trump pondering upon bringing back torture on inmates to fight 'fire with fire'.
He further said that its upto incoming defense secretary james mattis and director cia mike pompeo if the want it or not. 
John McCain the republican senator has lamented any such suggestions and pressed that trump can sign whatever he likes but whatever is in constitution and law will prevail in the united states


http://www.globaltimes.cn/content/1030693.shtml

• Controlling refugee problems in EU

Deliberations underway in Maltese capital Valletta between EU interior ministers on tackling migrant crisis in Europe. 

Suggestions:

Make refugee camps outside Europe, preferably in Libya and neighboring countries under auspices of united nations.
forward those to Europe who needs extraordinary protection.

Figures:

In 2016, over 5000 people got killed while aspiring to reach Europe via Mediterranean sea.
Smugglers benefits from this situation
230 people already missing in first quarter of current year
Brexit one main reason was the migrant crisis in Europe
at peak of insurgency in Europe, the influx reached at 1 million people on the gates of Europe. 

https://www.rt.com/news/375207-eu-refugees-camps-africa/

• Syrian quagmire

Finnish political commentator Petri krohn has emphasized that world community held a failed conference in the name of supporting Syrian people. They have never been serious in solving the issues because they themselves are the one who armed the Syrian opposition to teeth, 
The talks held in Astana to solve Syrian crisis brokered by Moscow, Tehran and Ankara was a serious step in this direction though. He further contented that aid relief isn't provided to the city of Aleppo although the city is open to united nations and other relief organizations. There is no issue of life threatening situations anymore. Aid is passing through Syrian government areas to rebel held areas but still propaganda is incited that Syrian government and Russia isn't allowing aid to flow to the people. This is a charade of aid and human rights where in the west is actually bolstering the rebels and emboldening them.

https://sputniknews.com/politics/201701261050044970-syria-humanitarian-crisis/

• Trump to Arm US military to teeth

Trump going after governmental agencies but finds it to convenient to say that military is very important and a balanced budget doesn't bother him much. his plans to cut spending will lessen the spending in next ten years by 10.4 trillion $

https://sputniknews.com/us/201701271050054126-trump-usa-military-importand-budget/

• Trump to hold talks with Putin

Trump to hold talks with Putin real soon. He expects to get along with Russia so that both powers can combine and decimate the ISIS military outfit. Putin called trump after his election victory to congratulate but according to trump, both leaders didn't get the chance to talk at length

https://sputniknews.com/politics/201701271050053774-trump-expects-putin-talk/

• Rohingya woes for bangladeshi government

Bangladesh is cracking down on Rohingyas affiliated or  inclined towards IS in Bangladesh. That is a new development in the region and huge challenge for the incumbent government of Sheikh Hasina Wajid

http://www.thedailystar.net/frontpage/cops-wary-link-some-rohingyas-1351762

• Migrant crisis in EU and possible steps to control

To save European union from further destabilization following steps are necessary:

> control influx of migrants and manage migrant crisis
> create jobs for temporary migrants and locals so that tolerance for each other's achieved
> migrant crisis giving rise to nationalistic tendencies in Europe so it needs to be handled with care so that nationalistic tendencies dont flare up to the point of another exit from the influential bloc> Europe needs to diversify its markets after us is strongly looking at protectionism and locally focused policies

http://cgss.com.pk/view.aspx?paper=paper%2Fpdf%2FIs-the-European-Economy-Heading-for-a-Boom-or-Bust.pdf


Note sources are given at the bottom of each commentary