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.