Democracy is not an end in itself; it is merely a tool to achieve an objective. In the wrong hands, even the best tool is dangerous. People who can't differentiate between the tool and the tool wielder are perhaps more dangerous than the criminals themselves, since they are easily manipulated by the shysters. One of the advantages of living in a true democracy like in the West, as opposed to the charade in Pakistan, is a better understanding of what democracy entails -- not on the voter -- but on the elected officials, viz. accountability and responsibility. "Leaders" who do not abide by their share of the democratic contract relinquish any claims on the protections of democracy.
When one understands the ground realities in Pakistan where 'democracy' is a farce in the hands of the feudal elites, it is naive to continue propagating the myth of democratic institutions in Pakistan. It is more than naive; it is downright criminal and treasonous, since it allows the bloodsucking feudals -- who are the single greatest threat to Pakistan's future -- to continue their charade at the expense of the country's well being. Is there anyone who can keep a straight face when Zardari and Gilani openly defy the Supreme Court itself in the name of 'democracy'?
