Karachi Political Diary

 Karachi  Political Diary

 Mubashir Mir

The Bhutto family once again dominated Pakistan’s political landscape last week. While President Asif Ali Zardari concentrated on the country’s worsening flood crisis and international diplomacy, the younger generation—Fatima Bhutto and her brother Zulfikar Ali Bhutto Jr.—stepped into the limelight with the announcement of a new political party. This parallel activity underscored two distinct faces of Bhutto politics: statecraft on one side, and reformist idealism on the other.

Zardari and the Flood Crisis

With meteorological warnings of torrential rains in Sindh and southern Punjab, President Zardari directed the administration to remain on high alert. District and tehsil-level officials were instructed to position relief machinery and monitor sensitive water bodies, including the Hub Dam. In solidarity with flood victims, the President stressed that both federal and provincial governments, alongside the armed forces and welfare institutions, must prioritize rehabilitation efforts.

Meeting Punjab Governor Sardar Saleem Haider, he reviewed urgent relief measures for the displaced. These instructions came against the backdrop of staggering losses: over 4,400 villages inundated, more than 4.2 million people affected, and thousands of acres of farmland devastated—destroying standing crops, livestock, and rural infrastructure.

A Diplomatic Venture to China

From September 12 to 21, President Zardari embarked on a rare ten-day official visit to China, covering Chengdu, Shanghai, and Xinjiang. The agenda includes expansion of trade ties, review of CPEC projects, and broader economic cooperation. Analysts describe this unusually long single-country visit as a reflection of Pakistan’s deepening dependence on Beijing, particularly at a time when balancing relations with the West, the United States, China, and Russia requires delicate diplomacy.

The visit carries historic undertones: while Pakistan has inked agreements with Washington for mining projects in Balochistan, it continues to lean on China, which has openly supported Islamabad in past conflicts with India. The message is clear—Pakistan’s future stability hinges on carefully calibrated international alignments, supported by internal political harmony.

Fatima Bhutto’s Cultural and Political Voice

Meanwhile, Fatima Bhutto is emerging as a new intellectual-political force. Along with her brother, Zulfikar Jr., she announced the formation of a new political party independent of the PPP, declaring that today’s People’s Party has drifted from the founding vision of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto.

Speaking on Pakistan’s cultural identity, Fatima lauded the “poetic” essence of local dramas and warned against copying Bollywood. She argued that Pakistan’s creative industry could establish itself globally if it embraced authenticity. Her words resonated as a call for self-respect in both politics and art, contrasting sharply with the transactional nature of contemporary governance.

The Flood and the IMF Dilemma

At the federal level, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif instructed the Finance Ministry to negotiate a one-month waiver on electricity bills for flood-affected areas. While this relief is essential, economists caution that IMF approval will be decisive, raising concerns about sovereignty. Dependence on external lenders often results in strict conditionalities—forcing budget cuts in health, education, and social sectors—at a time when humanitarian needs are greatest.

This tension between immediate relief and long-term economic autonomy reflects Pakistan’s central dilemma: survival today versus sovereignty tomorrow.

Bilawal Bhutto’s Role

Sindh’s Information Minister Sharjeel Inam Memon praised PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari as a “ray of hope” for flood victims. He emphasized Bilawal’s personal concern for the affected communities, noting his visits to central and southern Punjab and Sindh. Bilawal reportedly worked with Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and provincial ministers to formulate a rehabilitation strategy, particularly focused on reviving the battered agricultural sector.

Yet, Memon also lamented delays in the federal government’s special relief package under the Benazir Income Support Programme, reminding that the Prime Minister had already assured Bilawal of such aid. He further echoed Bilawal’s criticism of the federal delay in seeking international assistance through the United Nations, calling it “incomprehensible.”

The Human Question in Sindh Politics

Observers point out that Sindh’s politics remains locked in dynastic patterns. Most members of political families, despite foreign education, fail to adopt people-centric politics upon their return. The persistence of corruption stories each year illustrates how little has changed. Genuine transformation, they argue, demands a politics rooted in service and accountability rather than inheritance and patronage.

At a time when millions face homelessness, hunger, and loss of livelihood due to floods, the contrast between political showmanship and human suffering has never been sharper. The test for Pakistan’s leadership—whether Zardari’s statecraft, Bilawal’s populism, or Fatima’s reformist idealism—is whether they can shift politics from power to people.

Cricket Should Not Be a Conflict Zone

 Cricket Should Not Be a Conflict Zone

 Mubashir Mir

Cricket in South Asia has always been more than a sport. For millions in Pakistan and India, it is not merely a game of bat and ball; it is a stage where national pride, political tensions, and historic grievances play out. Whenever Pakistan and India face each other, the contest is not limited to the boundaries of a cricket field—it becomes a mirror of political rivalry, cultural identity, and, often, hostility. Yet, cricket by its very essence was meant to be a unifier, a sport that binds communities through fair competition. Unfortunately, in recent decades, the game has been increasingly politicized, turning what should be a festival of sport into a conflict zone.

The Roots of a Fierce Rivalry

The rivalry between Pakistan and India on the cricket field dates back to October 1952, when Pakistan played its first-ever Test series in Delhi. Since then, every match has carried the weight of political history—wars in 1965 and 1971, the Kargil conflict in 1999, and recurring border skirmishes have shaped the narrative of the two nations.

Despite political mistrust, cricket thrived as a cultural bridge at times. In the 1980s and 1990s, Pakistan often dominated India in one-day internationals, particularly in Sharjah, where Javed Miandad’s iconic last-ball six against India in 1986 became a defining memory for Pakistani fans. Similarly, the 1989 Bangalore Test, where Pakistan defeated India on its home soil, remains etched as a moment of national pride. In Kolkata in 1999, Pakistan won an ODI in front of more than 100,000 spectators—an atmosphere both intimidating and electric.

By the early 2000s, Pakistan led India 82–47 in ODIs, and 12–9 in Test matches. These figures illustrate how competitive and often one-sided Pakistan’s dominance used to be. Yet, history is dynamic, and over the last two decades, the balance of power shifted dramatically.

The Shift of Power: Two Decades of Indian Ascendancy

Since the turn of the millennium, India’s cricket has undergone a transformation. The rise of the Board of Control for Cricket in India (BCCI) as the world’s richest cricket board gave India immense influence in the International Cricket Council (ICC). The launch of the Indian Premier League (IPL) in 2008 further consolidated India’s financial dominance, attracting global stars and billions in revenue.

In contrast, Pakistan cricket suffered a series of setbacks. The 2009 terrorist attack on the Sri Lankan team in Lahore isolated Pakistan internationally, forcing it to play home series in the UAE for more than a decade. India, citing political tensions, refused bilateral cricket after 2012. The head-to-head record also tilted: India now leads Pakistan in ICC World Cup matches 13–1, including a 7–0 record in men’s ODI World Cups.

This stark reversal reflects not only India’s cricketing growth but also Pakistan’s inability to sustain consistency, modernize its domestic structure, and provide stable leadership.

Politics Overshadowing the Spirit of Sport

Cricket, unfortunately, has not remained immune from broader political hostilities. Under Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s government, ties have worsened. Pulwama and Balakot in 2019 turned into diplomatic flashpoints, spilling into cricketing arenas. Political rhetoric often portrays matches as a “war minus the shooting.” In 2019, during the World Cup in England, Indian fans came dressed as soldiers, making the event appear like a battlefield rather than a sporting contest.

Pakistan too has contributed to the politicization of cricket. National victories against India are often exaggerated as military triumphs, while defeats trigger blame games within the team and administration. This burden of political symbolism deprives players of the freedom to simply play cricket.

The Asia Cup and Umpiring Controversy

The recent Asia Cup once again stirred controversy when Pakistan alleged biased umpiring in their defeat to India. While emotions run high in such clashes, questions about fairness are not new. Several times, review decisions and marginal calls have appeared to favor the stronger side. Critics argue that India’s economic weight in world cricket creates invisible pressures on officials and administrators.

The ICC must address these concerns. Cricket’s credibility lies in its fairness, and no team—no matter how powerful its board—is above the principles of neutrality. If the game is to preserve its integrity, umpires and referees must not only be fair but also be seen to be fair.

Pakistan’s Own Weaknesses

While criticism of the ICC and India is warranted, Pakistan must also confront its internal shortcomings. Leadership remains a concern. The current captain, though statistically consistent, is often accused of lacking the aggressive temperament required for high-pressure India encounters.

Sports psychologists note that Pakistani players enter India matches burdened with anxiety, which hampers performance. Domestic cricket reforms after 2019 weakened the pipeline of talent, reducing opportunities for young cricketers. Fitness standards, fielding weaknesses, and inconsistent batting collapses remain chronic problems. Unless Pakistan addresses these structural flaws, blaming external factors alone will not bring improvement.

The ICC and the Weight of Commercial Interests

The International Cricket Council was once envisioned as the guardian of cricket’s spirit. Yet, critics argue that it has increasingly become a club dominated by three powerful boards—India, Australia, and England (the so-called “Big Three”). India, contributing nearly 70% of ICC’s revenue through broadcasting and sponsorship, enjoys unparalleled clout.

This financial imbalance skews decisions. Neutral venues, umpiring appointments, tournament scheduling—all are influenced by commercial priorities. Smaller boards like Pakistan find their voices sidelined. Fair criticism demands that ICC reform itself to ensure that cricket’s rules are not written merely by financial giants.

The Human Dimension

Beyond politics and profit lies the human reality. For ordinary people in Pakistan and India, cricket is a shared passion. When Sachin Tendulkar praised Wasim Akram’s artistry, or when Shoaib Akhtar joked with Virender Sehwag, it showed the human connection beneath rivalry. Millions of fans on both sides yearn not for hostility but for the joy of sport.

It is heartbreaking that children in Lahore and Delhi, who both dream of becoming fast bowlers or stylish batsmen, are deprived of watching their heroes play bilateral series. Cricket tours once softened political tensions—such as in 2004, when India toured Pakistan and fans embraced players across borders. That humanistic spirit must be revived.

The Way Forward

For cricket to be fair and meaningful, several steps are essential:

 Pakistan’s Reforms

Invest in domestic cricket, fitness, and sports psychology.

Build leadership that can handle pressure in India encounters.

Treat matches against India as sport, not as symbolic wars.

 India’s Responsibility

Separate politics from cricket.

Resume bilateral cricket as a gesture of goodwill.

Avoid using cricket as a tool of nationalism.

 ICC’s Role

Guarantee neutral umpiring and transparent review systems.

Balance financial power with fairness in decision-making.

Protect smaller nations from being marginalized.

 Shared Humanity

Promote cultural exchanges, joint cricket academies, and fan-to-fan interactions.

Encourage former players from both sides to become ambassadors of peace.

Conclusion

Cricket should never become a conflict zone. It should remain what it was meant to be—a celebration of talent, courage, and sportsmanship. India and Pakistan have given the world some of the greatest cricketers—Imran Khan and Kapil Dev, Wasim Akram and Sachin Tendulkar, Waqar Younis and Virat Kohli. Their legacies remind us that cricket at its best transcends borders.

Fair criticism of all stakeholders is essential: Pakistan must strengthen itself internally, India must resist politicizing the game, and ICC must uphold neutrality. The millions of fans who fill stadiums and sit glued to their televisions deserve not a political spectacle but a genuine contest of skill.

Let cricket be the bridge, not the battlefield.

Karachi Political Diary

 Karachi Political Diary

 Mubasher Mir

Pakistan today stands at a crossroads, facing challenges on multiple fronts. On one hand, the government is making efforts to rebuild public trust through health initiatives; on the other, social tragedies, natural disasters, and economic pressures are weighing heavily on ordinary citizens.  Political diary takes a closer look at these critical issues.

Public Health and the Vaccination Drive

Pakistan recently launched its first nationwide Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination campaign. Federal Health Minister Syed Mustafa Kamal set a rare example of transparency by having his daughter vaccinated in front of the media. The campaign, which began on 15 September 2025, targets girls aged 9 to 14 in order to prevent cervical cancer.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 600,000 women worldwide are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year, and Pakistan is no exception. However, social media has been flooded with conspiracy theories and rumors claiming the vaccine causes infertility and other harmful effects. Scientific research shows no evidence of such claims. The minister clarified this, emphasizing the need for awareness, transparency, and public confidence. This initiative is not just a medical program but also a step towards building a healthier society.

Cruelty Against Animals – A Social Tragedy

A disturbing incident in Sukkur, Sindh exposed the darker side of social behavior. A landowner accused a camel of damaging his crops; the animal was tied to a tractor, dragged, brutally beaten, and left with a broken leg. Police arrested two suspects, while one remains at large.

This was not an isolated event. Similar acts of cruelty have been reported before — for instance, a camel’s leg was severed in Sanghar a few months ago. These incidents reveal both the failure of law enforcement and a wider moral crisis in society. Pakistan does have laws protecting animal rights, but lack of enforcement emboldens perpetrators. The Sindh Chief Minister took notice and promised justice, but unless punishments are swift and public awareness is raised, such cruelty will continue unchecked.

Floods in Sindh – A Recurring Disaster

Sindh once again faces the annual devastation of floods. Rising water levels in the Indus River and overflowing canals have displaced thousands of families, forcing them into temporary shelters.

Floods bring not only destruction of property but also widespread health risks. Contaminated water leads to cholera, diarrhea, and malaria outbreaks. Relief camps have been set up, but complaints of mismanagement, shortages, and delays are mounting. The Sindh PDMA has warned that climate change is intensifying flood risks, making long-term planning and climate resilience strategies urgent.

Economy Under Pressure – Stock Market & Exports

The Pakistan Stock Exchange (PSX) has witnessed sharp volatility in recent days. Investors remain cautious due to political uncertainty, global market instability, and the rupee’s depreciation. Experts note that inflation and rising utility tariffs have pushed business costs higher, directly affecting corporate profitability.

On the trade front, Pakistan’s exports to neighboring countries are shrinking. In FY2025, the trade deficit with neighbors rose by 29% to $12.3 billion. Imports from China and India are surging, while Pakistani exports suffer from low competitiveness, quality issues, and transport bottlenecks. Although trade figures with Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, and Bangladesh show some improvement, the overall trend is alarming.

Reviving exports will require structural reforms, incentives for export industries, better trade facilitation, and access to new markets.

Political Scene – PTI’s “Aazaan Movement

On the political front, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has launched the “Aazaan Movement” to pressure the government for free elections and accountability. Initially branded as “Mission Noor”, the campaign sparked controversy and was criticized for religious undertones, eventually forcing a name change.

Despite the criticism, PTI has managed to mobilize crowds across multiple cities. Reports suggest that overseas Pakistanis are also extending their support. While popular participation in politics is a positive sign, the real test for PTI lies in maintaining peaceful demonstrations within the law, ensuring that public issues remain at the forefront rather than descending into conflict.

Blue Economy – Untapped Potential

Pakistan’s 1,046 km coastline gives it a strategic position in the Arabian Sea, yet the contribution of the blue economy to national GDP remains limited to just 2–3%.

Sectors such as fisheries, aquaculture, maritime trade, coastal tourism, and renewable energy hold immense potential. For example, adopting modern fishing technologies could increase seafood exports significantly. According to economic experts, Pakistan could earn billions annually if it invests in coastal infrastructure, attracts foreign investment, and ensures environmental sustainability.

The blue economy is not just about economic growth; it offers opportunities for employment generation, energy diversification, and climate balance — all areas where Pakistan urgently needs solutions.

Conclusion

The current scenario in Pakistan presents a paradox. On one hand, initiatives like the HPV vaccination campaign mark progress in public health; on the other, social tragedies like animal cruelty and recurring floods highlight deep vulnerabilities. The economy remains fragile, with exports declining and markets under pressure. Political movements are reshaping the national debate, while future economic opportunities, such as the blue economy, are still awaiting serious attention.

What Pakistan needs today is collective awareness, governmental seriousness, and active public involvement. Only if health, justice, economy, and environment are treated as equal priorities can Pakistan emerge from its difficulties and move towards prosperity.

Karachi Political Diary

 Karachi Political Diary

 Mubashir Mir

Sindh today stands at a crossroads where opportunities and crises converge. On the one hand, ambitious infrastructure projects promise to redefine Pakistan’s economic landscape, while on the other, climate-induced floods, public health crises, and political uncertainty cast long shadows. The evolving role of the Bhutto family’s new generation and speculation about the leadership of Sindh further add to the province’s complex political canvas.

Infrastructure Projects: M-6 and M-10 — The Economic Lifelines

At a high-level review meeting in Karachi, Sindh Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and Federal Minister for Communications Aleem Khan assessed the progress of two crucial projects: the Hyderabad–Sukkur Motorway (M-6) and the Karachi Northern Bypass (M-10).

The M-6, a 306-kilometer project long delayed due to funding challenges, is expected to complete the North–South Motorway Link, connecting Karachi Port and Port Qasim with central and northern Pakistan. Experts argue that this corridor will not only facilitate logistics but also create thousands of employment opportunities for Sindh’s youth.

Similarly, the transformation of the M-10 into a modern expressway seeks to reduce Karachi’s chronic traffic congestion. According to the National Highway Authority (NHA), over 35% of Pakistan’s trade cargo passes through Karachi, yet the city loses an estimated Rs. 50 billion annually due to traffic gridlocks. Upgrading the M-10 could ease this bottleneck.

Aleem Khan assured transparency and timely completion — a claim viewed with cautious optimism given Pakistan’s checkered history of delays in mega-projects.

Karachi’s Urban Challenge: Rains, Drains, and Relief

Karachi Mayor Murtaza Wahab took an unusually inclusive step by inviting MQM, Jamaat-e-Islami, PTI, and PML-N to join hands in rain preparedness. “This is not an administration that eats tea and parathas on a café Pealla. We believe in practical measures,” he quipped, underscoring his resolve.

Relief camps have been set up at flood-prone points, while coordination with the Provincial Disaster Management Authority (PDMA) remains active. Yet, past experience shows that urban flooding in Karachi is less about heavy rainfall and more about poor planning, unregulated construction, and encroachment on stormwater drains. The Supreme Court has previously censured Karachi’s civic agencies for negligence.

A Landmark Judicial Verdict: Parks for People, Not Profits

The Sindh High Court (SHC) struck down the Karachi Metropolitan Corporation’s resolution to allow commercial use of public parks under the guise of public–private partnerships. Petitioner Advocate Saifuddin hailed the ruling as “historic,” calling it a milestone in safeguarding Karachi’s civic assets.

The court reaffirmed a principle long ignored in Karachi: urban green spaces are not commodities. With Karachi’s per capita green space already below 0.5 square meters per person (far less than the WHO’s recommended 9 square meters), the ruling is a vital step toward protecting citizens’ right to a livable environment.

Public Health Alarm: Post-COVID Heart Disease Surge

Beyond politics, health institutions in Karachi are grappling with a new reality: a sharp increase in heart disease cases following the COVID-19 pandemic.

Aga Khan University Hospital reports that annual heart attack cases doubled from 1,500 pre-pandemic to 3,000 post-pandemic.

The NICVD, South Asia’s largest cardiac hospital, treated 9,925 patients in 2024 alone.

Medical experts believe COVID-19 has lingering cardiovascular impacts, though vaccine-related concerns lack scientific basis. This reflects a global trend: according to the American Heart Association, cardiovascular mortality rose by nearly 15% worldwide during and after the pandemic.

Floods on the Horizon: A Province on Edge

The Provincial Rain and Flood Emergency Monitoring Cell warns that 1,651 villages across 44 talukas are at risk of flooding, potentially displacing 1.6 million people. Already, over 6,000 residents have been evacuated in the last 24 hours.

528 relief camps and 154 medical camps are functional.

Over 878,000 livestock — the backbone of rural Sindh’s economy — have been vaccinated and treated.

President Asif Ali Zardari has directed authorities to keep machinery ready at the tehsil level, especially in low-lying and coastal belts. Continuous monitoring of Hub Dam and other reservoirs is underway to prevent urban flooding.

Climate change has intensified these challenges: Pakistan was ranked 8th most vulnerable country in the Global Climate Risk Index 2021, and Sindh bears the brunt.

Zulfiqar Bhutto Jr.: A New Bhutto Emerges

Amidst environmental and economic pressures, politics in Sindh is entering a new phase with the rise of Zulfiqar Bhutto Jr., son of the late Mir Murtaza Bhutto.

In March 2025, he announced his formal entry into politics, aligning himself with the PPP (Shaheed Bhutto Group). He strongly criticized Punjab’s irrigation projects as “cultural genocide,” highlighting Sindh’s water crisis.

By July 2025, he hinted at forming a new party with his sister Fatima Bhutto, aiming to revive the “original Bhutto ideals.” His outreach to Lyari — the Bhutto family’s historic bastion — signals his intent to reclaim lost ground. His promise to contest elections from Lyari has already energized disillusioned PPP voters.

Observers note that his appeal, particularly among youth and activists, may emerge as a counterbalance to mainstream PPP leadership.

The Murad Ali Shah Question: Rumors of Change

Speculation is rife over a possible change of Sindh’s Chief Minister. While the PPP leadership has issued no official confirmation, analysts link the rumors to growing internal rifts and public criticism of governance.

Murad Ali Shah, despite spearheading mega-projects like M-6 and flood preparedness, remains under judicial scrutiny. A 2018 judgment regarding dual Nationality by Justice Qazi Faez Isa raised questions about his reputation. Shah has since sought to transfer his appeal to a constitutional bench, hoping for relief.

Some political insiders suggest that the growing visibility of Bhutto Jr. and Fatima Bhutto has added pressure on the party to recalibrate leadership. Whether Shah survives this storm will depend on both his performance and the PPP’s internal calculus.

Conclusion: A Province in Transition

Sindh’s story today is one of contrasts. On one hand, motorways and bypasses hold the promise of economic revival; on the other, climate threats loom large, exposing millions to vulnerability. Judicial verdicts are safeguarding civic rights, while the health sector battles post-pandemic realities.

Politically, the Bhutto legacy is being reimagined by a younger generation, while rumors of change at the top keep the ruling PPP unsettled. In this dynamic landscape, one fact is certain: Sindh is at a defining moment where governance, resilience, and leadership will determine whether hope triumphs over hardship.

 The State of Humanity: A Reflection on Interests and Ethics

Mubasher Mir

In the contemporary global order, the dominance of interests over ethics has become increasingly visible. Both individuals and institutions appear driven more by self-preservation and strategic gain than by the pursuit of collective welfare. This shift is reflected in international indices such as the Human Development Index (HDI), which, despite measuring progress through life expectancy, education, and income, reveals disturbing disparities between economic strength and human well-being.

The Prioritization of State Interests

The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has long emphasized that HDI rankings often mirror national economic clout more than the actual quality of life of citizens. Nations, while investing heavily in their defence and security apparatus, often neglect essential services like education, healthcare, and social welfare.

The Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) reported that global military expenditure surged to $2.24 trillion in 2022, dominated by the United States, China, and Russia. This figure dwarfs the allocations for sectors directly contributing to human welfare.

The Role of Powerful Countries in Major Political Conflicts

Powerful countries wield significant influence over global governance structures, yet their decisions frequently prioritize geopolitical advantage over humanitarian responsibility. The international arms trade, dominated by leading economies, continues to fuel conflicts, exacerbate instability, and empower regimes that commit human rights violations.

Selective silence also underscores this dynamic. While powers readily intervene in conflicts that threaten their interests, they often remain indifferent to humanitarian crises elsewhere.

Consequences of Prioritizing Interests Over Ethics

The pursuit of interests often leads to human rights abuses, with widespread suppression of free expression, restrictions on assembly, and systemic discrimination. Democratic backsliding is also prevalent, with the erosion of civil liberties, curtailment of media freedom, and weakening of checks and balances. Poverty and inequality persist, with many countries struggling to meet the Sustainable Development Goal of universal health coverage.

The Illusion of Peace and Security

Despite astronomical defence budgets, the world has not become safer. The Global Peace Index (GPI) shows that levels of global peacefulness have steadily declined over the past decade. Violent conflicts, terrorism, and militarization have destabilized several regions, undermining the very security that nations claim to be safeguarding.

Democracy and Governance in Question

Democracy, often celebrated as a universal ideal, is itself under strain. The Economist Intelligence Unit’s Democracy Index 2022 reports widespread democratic regression, with 71 countries experiencing backsliding in recent years. This regression is marked by the erosion of civil liberties, curtailment of media freedom, and the weakening of checks and balances.

Post-COVID Authoritarianism and Suppression of Rights

The COVID-19 pandemic not only reshaped public health priorities but also redefined the relationship between states and their citizens. Under the banner of emergency management, many governments expanded their authority, introducing measures that, while initially justified as necessary for survival, have since evolved into mechanisms of control.

The narrative of “state interest” has grown stronger in the post-pandemic world. Governments often justify restrictions on freedom of movement, assembly, and expression as essential for security or stability. However, these measures have in many cases transformed into tools for silencing dissent.

Citizens demanding justice, activists struggling for their rights, or marginalized groups calling for recognition are frequently branded as “separatists,” “foreign agents,” or even “terrorists.” This tightening grip on civil liberties reflects a deeper global trend: the steady erosion of citizenship rights. From digital surveillance to arbitrary detentions, states increasingly demand compliance while punishing dissent.

Such developments raise pressing questions. If raising one’s voice in support of victims—whether at home or abroad—is treated as disloyalty, what space remains for human rights advocacy? If defending the oppressed is criminalized, can justice ever prevail?

The Fate of the Suppressed

History demonstrates that oppressed communities cannot indefinitely rely on external saviors. While international solidarity has moral value, the reality is that powerful states often weigh interventions against strategic interests rather than ethical imperatives.

The sobering truth is that liberation rarely arrives from outside; it must be forged within. Suppressed and marginalized groups must recognize their agency. Without collective organization, resilience, and self-reliance, their struggles risk being subsumed by the very powers that seek to silence them.

The Search for Ethics and Humanity

In this climate of competing interests, ethics and humanity appear scarce. Yet, history reminds us that societies thrive only when guided by moral responsibility. The search for leadership grounded in ethics remains urgent. A true leader is not one who amplifies the state’s power, but one who places human dignity at the heart of governance.

Conclusion

The world stands at a defining juncture. The prevailing narrative of interests—measured in military spending, geopolitical maneuvering, and short-term economic gain—overshadows the imperative of ethics. Yet genuine progress lies not in the accumulation of power but in the nurturing of human welfare, justice, and accountability.

To reshape the trajectory of global development, states must reorient their priorities. A balanced framework—where security does not eclipse social investment, and where economic ambition does not override ethical responsibility—is essential. The post-COVID era must not become a justification for authoritarianism, but rather an opportunity to reimagine governance rooted in dignity, freedom, and humanity.

Karachi Political Diary

 Karachi Political Diary

 Mubasher Mir

Pakistan today stands at a defining crossroads—between possibilities that can transform the nation and persistent challenges that continue to haunt its people. Diplomacy, technology, and intellectual progress offer rays of hope, but governmental negligence, judicial inefficiencies, and recurrent natural disasters overshadow these gains. The central question, from the bustling streets of Karachi to the power corridors of Islamabad and the diplomatic missions across the globe, remains the same: Can Pakistan harness its capabilities to overcome its crises, or will opportunities once again be lost to mismanagement?

Diplomacy: New Openings in Karachi

Karachi, Pakistan’s economic hub, has always been a gateway for foreign engagement. This week, two notable diplomatic developments highlight the city’s importance in the international arena.

First, the new German Consul General, Thomas Eberhard Schultz, assumed office in Karachi. His early meetings with Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah and Governor Kamran Tessori have already set the tone for a more cooperative phase in Pakistan–Germany relations. Germany, as Pakistan’s fourth-largest trading partner in the European Union, has historically supported Pakistan in areas of renewable energy, technical education, and cultural exchange. Bilateral trade between the two countries currently hovers around €3.6 billion annually. Schultz’s presence in Karachi opens avenues for increased German investment in Sindh’s industrial and renewable energy sectors, provided Pakistan ensures transparency and governance.

Meanwhile, the United States has appointed Charles Goodman as the new Consul General in Karachi, effective August 28, 2025. Goodman is a seasoned diplomat with postings in Kosovo, New Zealand, Samoa, Lithuania, Georgia, Argentina, and Pakistan (Lahore, 2011). His extensive background in management and his private sector experience spanning two decades in financial services, real estate, and technology give him a unique blend of expertise. Goodman has already emphasized economic cooperation, trade partnerships, and cultural exchange, particularly between the people of Sindh and Balochistan and American citizens.

The appointment signifies a continuity of U.S. interest in Pakistan’s stability and development, even as Washington recalibrates its South Asia strategy post-Afghanistan. For Pakistan, such diplomatic gestures are a reminder that the world is willing to cooperate—if domestic performance matches external goodwill.

Governance on Trial: The Dumper Mafia Case

Diplomatic progress, however, stands in sharp contrast with domestic failures in governance. This week, the Sindh High Court (SHC) heard a petition against the “dumper mafia”—heavy trucks that recklessly roam Karachi’s roads, often without proper regulation. Petitioners revealed that more than 600 lives have been lost in road accidents involving dumpers in the last decade yet authorities remain indifferent.

The SHC’s remarks underline the state’s failure to enforce basic traffic and transport laws. Citizens argue that the police’s complicity, coupled with political patronage for these mafias, has turned Karachi’s roads into death traps. This case is more than just a traffic issue; it is a metaphor for Pakistan’s governance crisis—a system where the weak suffer while the powerful act with impunity. Unless institutions fulfill their constitutional duties, the citizens’ trust in the state will erode further.

Technology: A Ray of Hope

Amid these challenges, Pakistan has witnessed a breakthrough on the technology front. Jazz, the country’s leading telecom operator, has introduced 480-watt Massive MIMO technology for the first time. This upgrade has improved network performance by nearly 340%, paving the way for the long-awaited launch of 5G services.

Pakistan’s telecom sector contributes more than Rs 850 billion annually to the national economy With nearly 191 million cellular subscribers and 131 million broadband users, the sector’s expansion into advanced technologies signals Pakistan’s potential to integrate with the global digital economy. However, the question remains whether the regulatory framework and political vision will keep pace with innovation—or whether technological advances will remain isolated achievements in a broader climate of inefficiency.

Intellectual Capital: Leadership Beyond Business

Another positive development this week was the launch of renowned banker and intellectual Sirajuddin Aziz’s new book, “Corporate Success: Engaged Leadership.” The book emphasizes ethics, empathy, and engagement as pillars of leadership. It has been widely praised by intellectuals and corporate leaders as a guiding framework—not only for business but also for governance.

At a time when Pakistan’s political leadership is often accused of being reactive rather than visionary, Aziz’s message resonates deeply: sustainable success requires integrity, inclusiveness, and foresight. If policymakers and political actors absorb even a fraction of these principles, Pakistan can begin to rebuild its fractured social contract.

Climate Reality: The Looming Floods

While intellectual and technological progress offers hope, nature has once again cast a shadow. The Indus River is swelling, and moderate flooding is feared at Guddu, Sukkur, and Kotri barrages. According to the Pakistan Meteorological Department (PMD), water inflows have already surpassed 350,000 cusecs at Guddu, threatening downstream districts such as Kashmore, Shikarpur, Khairpur, Dadu, and Thatta.

The specter of the 2022 floods, which displaced 33 million people and caused $30 billion in damages, still looms large. Experts warn that the Sindh government appears unprepared, despite repeated pledges to strengthen embankments and improve disaster response. The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has issued alerts, but local administrations lack the capacity to provide immediate relief. For residents of riverine Sindh, the question is heartbreaking yet familiar: Will they again be left to sleep under the open sky?

A Tale of Two Pakistans

What emerges from this week’s developments is a tale of two Pakistans.

On one hand, diplomatic engagement, technological innovation, and intellectual output showcase the country’s immense potential. Germany and the U.S. are ready for cooperation; telecom giants are pushing toward 5G; and thought leaders like Sirajuddin Aziz are providing frameworks for progress.

On the other hand, governance paralysis, judicial inertia, and climate vulnerability continue to inflict suffering. The dumper mafia case epitomizes impunity, while looming floods remind us of systemic neglect.

This dichotomy highlights Pakistan’s most pressing dilemma: possibilities exist, but without institutional will, they cannot translate into reality.

The Human Dimension

Beyond statistics and policy debates, it is the ordinary citizen of Karachi, Sukkur, or Dadu who bears the brunt. For the middle-class commuter fearing dumpers, the farmer in Khairpur praying for embankments to hold, or the student in Larkana hoping for stable internet, these issues are not abstract—they define survival and dignity.

Diplomatic ties mean little if citizens remain unprotected; technology will not matter if floods wash away homes; books on leadership cannot inspire unless leaders embody those values. The measure of Pakistan’s progress must be human well-being, not merely international appointments or technical launches.

The Way Forward

Pakistan must adopt far-sighted strategies instead of short-term fixes.

1. Governance Reform – Strict enforcement against mafias, depoliticized policing, and judicial accountability must become priorities.

2. Disaster Preparedness – Sindh must learn from 2022 by strengthening embankments, improving early warning systems, and allocating real budgets for relief.

3. Diplomatic Leverage – Appointments like Schultz and Goodman should be used to attract investment in energy, education, and infrastructure.

4. Technological Advancement – 5G preparation must be aligned with digital governance reforms to ensure equitable access.

5. Leadership Ethics – A shift toward integrity, empathy, and service is essential if politics is to regain public trust.

Conclusion

Pakistan’s story remains one of untapped potential and recurring crises. The world stands ready to engage, knowledge and technology are advancing, and intellectual voices offer guidance. Yet, governance paralysis, judicial gaps, and climate disasters continue to erode the nation’s strength.

The balance is delicate. If Pakistan embraces visionary leadership, institutional accountability, and human-centered development, possibilities can turn into realities. If not, the challenges will harden into permanent scars.

At this critical juncture, the choice is ours: to rise with wisdom and courage, or to drift with negligence into repeated failures.