Let us analyze this question with some thought.
The main problem with pakistan is the arbitrary manner in which things are done. We have no sense of identity , no sense of direction, no national aspirations, no governance , no set system in place. From the looks of it, we are doomed. However, a couple of things which give us hope are as follows.
Firstly, the Army inspite of adequate reason has steadfastly refused to step in and let this "angra loola" system run its course. I know things are not ideal but we need to decide what system we are going to adapt in running the country. If it is to be democracy, in the shape of Parliamentary or the presidential system, let it be that system, but for heavens sake let it run its course.
The second ray of hope is the free press, which inspite of its political affiliations, bunch of blackmailers , and nasty characters, in generally has been reasonably on the ball, in highlightingthe problems that the country faces. It is still going strong and projects things from the peoples point of view in most cases. It does need tightening and a bit of control, but that will come with time.
The third ray of light is the supreme court. Inspite of its suo mottos and looking out for its own interests, the stigma of dishonesty has not touched this august body and therefore , by pakistani standards, this is an achievement and a half. Ch. Iftikhar, may have his faults but dishonesty is not one of them. He has highlighted quite a few issues which affect the daily running of lives of the common man, and I can sincerely say that people have more respect for this judiciary than anyother set of judges before.
So where do we need to go from now?.We now need to set a direction along which we are going to run. Whether we do it on a secular basis, or adhere to our Islamic roots, is for the people of pakistan to decide, but it must be decided once and for all.This will prevent yo-yoing of directions which is the worst thing that can happen to a country like Pakistan. Secondly, we need peace on our borders. We need to resolve the differences with our neighbours and try and settle all disputes once and for all. If it means giving up some of our stated aims, so be it. But we cannot hope for progress while being in a constant state of war.
Thirdly, we need major reforms in the taxation system, including taxation on the elite land owners based on their incomes. This may mean instituting a system where they have to have their incomes audited, and enter their returns. Non compliance should result in confiscation of their properties and lands to pay the taxes. We need this to generate taxes laocally for our needs rather than going out with a begging bowl.
Fourthly we must educate the masses. This means a lot of resources and perhaps novel ways of education, but there is no denying the fact that education is the only way out of our troubles.
lastly we need to initiate more industries nad ask foreign vendors to establish industries in pakistan and produce wares here for sale , and stop importing items. There should be strict rules about progressive expansion in capabilities so that in 10 yrs time, we should have all cars being built locally. The employers should be responsible for the education of their employeesand anyone who is not progressing in education, should be shown the door.
Lastly we will need a better means of enforcing law and order. The enforcement agancies need to be modernized on the basis of education and science. I would recommend that the task of training be undertakebuoys shuld bepicked up at 8th class level and trained for 6 yrs while doing their graduation. They would be answerable to the Law department and held under the jurisdiction of the judges. Education should continue as they go up the ranks, and exams become as necessary as progression in the job.
Araz
