It is strange that the opposition leaders in their statements and during their appearance on television talk shows avoid catching the bull by the horn. In contrast, politicians are ridiculed every day, several times a day.
It is funny to watch that instead of answering a question put to them, they involve themselves emotionally to talk about past accusations and present them as if they are universal truths. One fails to understand as to how one can take refuge or hide behind the cover of the so-called corruption or wrongs of others. It is a globally accepted norm of justice that one is innocent unless proven otherwise.
The above modus operandi of self-defence is beyond comprehension. How can a thief tell and argue before a judge that he cannot punish him till all the thieves are apprehended and punished? This argument is, in fact, the acceptance of guilt, and should be processed as per the law of the land, so that law could take its own course without fear or favour.
The other argument of the supporters of the opposition party is that a popular leader can never be punished. Is a popular leader a holy cow, or does not fall into the ambit of the law of the land? This is highly unfair from those whose party stands for justice.
Notwithstanding the above, it is difficult to understand the logic behind hurling threats to the state by some opposition leaders about the consequences of arresting their chief or disqualifying him. They are at full liberty to defend their leader as much as they can or want. But antagonising the state and challenging the state authority is actually a disservice to the party and its leadership which could land both the party and the leadership in serious trouble. This I say because in our history we see adverse effects of such adventurism.
There is another point to ponder. Is it being done out of enthusiasm and loyalty towards the party and its leadership, or is it a calculated move to create a vacuum that may provide someone an opportunity to fill it?
LT-COL (RETD) SYED IFTIKHAR AHMED
KARACHI
