JOURNALISTS RAISE VOICE FOR THE RESTORATION OF ISLAMABAD'S PRISTINE GREEN CHARACTER

Pledge to highlight the importance of preserving City's ecological gems amidst the evolving urban landscape trough digital media 

ISLAMABAD: Environmental experts and journalists have urged legislators to take decisive measures to safeguard Islamabad's environment, which was once renowned for its abundant greenery and limited urbanisation. They have also emphasised the need for media organisations to dedicate prime time slots to educate the public about climate change and environmental destruction, in order to preserve the natural ecosystem and advocate for environmental preservation.

The participants said this in a 3-day Sabz Journalism Fellowship Training (SJFT) in Islamabad organised by the Global Neighbourhood for Media Innovation (GNMI), in collaboration with the State Department, Embassy of United States.

The training, spearheaded by senior environmental journalist Afia Salam, sought to empower mid-career journalists, digital content producers, and filmmakers who are actively involved in reporting on climate-related issues across different media platforms.

IRAN’S “TRUE PROMISE” VS. U.S “IRONCLAD SUPPORT”: A FAILURE OF INTERNATIONAL SYSTEM

Mahtab Bashir
0333 53 63 248
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad

Iran strikes Israel on Sunday 

Iran's first direct attack on Israeli soil in response to a deadly strike in Damascus has heightened the clandestine war between the two regional foes. Along with Iran's proxies and allies, assaults on Israeli positions were carried out, resulting in blaring sirens in different areas and reports of explosions in the skies above Jerusalem. Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi warned Israel against impulsive retaliation, emphasizing that any such action would prompt a swift and more forceful reaction.

The Islamic Revolutionary Guards Corps (IRGC) of Iran carried out a significant retaliatory attack with drones and missiles in response to Operation 'True Promise' against specific locations within Israel. Rear Admiral Daniel Hagari, the Israel military spokesperson, stated in a televised address that Iran launched over 300 ballistic missiles, drones, and cruise missiles towards Israel, surpassing the initial estimate of over 200 launches.

What we know so far:

· Israel launched an attack on the consular section of Iran's embassy in Damascus on April 1st.

· In response, Iran carried out retaliatory strikes on April 14th, causing at least 12 injuries, including a 7-year-old child.

· The Israeli army reported "minor damage" to an air base during the incident.

· US & UK supported Israel in shooting down most of Iran's attacks.

· Iran has stated that the retaliatory actions have been completed, but warned Israel against any further responses.

· US expressed concerns about the escalation of a crisis in the Middle East.

· The UNSC has scheduled a meeting at Israel's request to address the situation.

· Iran has called in the British, French, and German ambassadors to discuss their perceived double standards.

· Pakistan has urged to exercise utmost restraint in the current circumstances.

The tensions arose following an airstrike on Iran's consular annex in Damascus on April 1st, which led to threats of retaliation from Iran. Despite repeated warnings from Washington regarding imminent reprisals, it remains uncertain how Israel will respond to Iran's aggression. Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant emphasized the importance of staying vigilant, suggesting that the conflict was far from resolved.

Iranian people showing wrath against Israel

US President Joe Biden reaffirmed America's steadfast support for Israel but signalled a preference for diplomatic resolutions over military escalations in the region. The White House expressed a desire to avert further crises in the Middle East, urging all involved parties to show restraint. The Israeli military reported that over 300 drones and missiles were launched towards Israel, resulting in injuries to 12 individuals. Nonetheless, most of the projectiles were intercepted before reaching Israeli territory, thanks to aid from the U.S, Jordan, U.K and other allies.

The international community has called for calm, with the United Nations Security Council set to convene for an emergency session addressing the escalating conflict.

The current situation presents a critical moment for the global community. Instead of coddling Israel, the Western alliance must intervene to stop it from escalating tensions further. Any future military actions by Tel Aviv against Iran could lead to an all-out war, which must be avoided at all costs.

Benjamin Netanyahu shaking hand with Joe Biden

The solution is clear: Israel must immediately halt the violence in Gaza, which is the main cause of the current conflict in the Middle East. Also, Israel must stop targeting other sovereign nations like Iran, Lebanon, and Syria. If the West continues with its aggressive rhetoric, it will only empower Israel and potentially drag the US and Europe into a war with Iran and its allies. It appears that Benjamin Netanyahu may be seeking to shift focus away from the Gaza crisis by provoking a confrontation with Iran, even if it means involving American forces. Skilled diplomacy is crucial at this moment to prevent a catastrophic clash.

Dr. Munawar Hussain, an International Relations expert at Quaid-i-Azam University in Islamabad, has identified five significant insights regarding recent events in the Middle East, particularly in response to Iran's recent airstrikes on Israel.

According to Hussain, the recent Iranian airstrikes carried out on Israel have brought to light the vulnerabilities in the deterrence systems of Israel, the U.S, and their allies in the Middle East. These attacks have demonstrated that Iran possesses not only the capability, but also the determination and resolve to challenge and confront its adversaries in the region.

Dr Munawar Hussain, ASC, QAU 

Secondly, it represents a total breakdown in all forms of diplomacy. As the world transitions from a unipolar to a multipolar system, the global order is deteriorating rapidly. Dr. Munawar Hussain expressed his belief that diplomacy at every level has proven to be a complete failure.

Thirdly, the recent increase in tensions represents a glaring and disappointing display of incompetence on the part of the united Nations, which has neglected to denounce Israel's heinous actions in Gaza over the past half-year. However, it is (U.N) quick to express condemnation following Iran's strikes on Israel. The U.N's role is often likened or recokned similar to that of the failed League of Nations, Dr. Munawar said.

Fourthly, the narrative of Western humanism has been effectively silenced and ignored. The unwavering support of the West towards Israel, without any sense of fairness or balance, has resulted in nothing but utter disaster.

And the last but indeed not the least, the failure of international morality is exemplified by the actions of the U.S and its allies, who have unwaveringly supported Israel to the point where I
srael has openly rejected the authority of the United Nations and other international bodies. This blatant disregard for global standards of ethics is both concerning and disheartening.

Dr. Munawar suggested that Pakistan should strengthen strategic partnerships with key countries such as China, Russia, Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Brazil, South Africa, and Iran. While it is important to improve cooperation (working relations) with the U.S , Canada, India, Afghanistan, and other Western nations in order to advance and thrive in the future.

Mahtab Bashir is a journalist and a student of M.Phil, Area Study Centre, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad.

ISLAMABAD ALL SET TO UNVEILS ITS MASCOT NAMED "'MARGO"

The astute cheetah strives to elevate the reputation of ICT and celebrate its rich cultural heritage

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad
0333 53 63 248

The federal capital is to have an official mascot called MarGo, with the goal of enhancing the city's image and recognizing its cultural heritage. MarGo, a fusion of "Mar" from Margalla Hills and "Go" signifying growth and prosperity, embodies a cheetah symbolizing dynamism and progress in Islamabad.

Adorned with trendy sunglasses and a stylish muffler, MarGo represents sophistication and modern style, reflecting the cosmopolitan atmosphere of the city.

This move follows a global trend seen in cities like New York with the Statue of Liberty and London with its iconic red double-decker buses, which have become symbols of their landscapes and cultures.

The civic agency has planned to strategically place MarGo in key locations throughout the city to establish it as a recognizable symbol of Islamabad.

From busy markets to peaceful parks and government buildings, MarGo will warmly welcome both tourists and locals. Besides its symbolic importance, MarGo is expected to boost tourism and encourage civic pride in Islamabad.

By uniting the diverse community of the capital under one symbol, MarGo aims to be a beloved icon representing the shared goals and accomplishments of the city.

MarGo possesses an irresistible charisma and universal appeal that is sure to captivate everyone who comes across it, solidifying its reputation as a timeless emblem of Islamabad's vibrant essence and cultural legacy.

AFTAB MAKEN LEAVES DUNYA (MEDIA GROUP)

"Don't be sad because it's over, be happy because it happened."

Early days at Dunya 

After an incredible journey of 12 years of shared moments and memories, I bid farewell to my colleague, a senior journalist, an incisive and shrewd Aftab Maken as he navigate paths beyond my workplace.

Maken Sain! As you say goodbye to Dunya News, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the exciting new chapter you are about to embark on. Like a skilled protagonist in a captivating novel, you are leaving this office to embark on a new adventure, chasing after a better opportunity that awaits you in another realm of professional growth.

I am filled with a mix of emotions. Mr. Maken, it is with a heavy heart that I wave you goodbye, but also with a sense of gratitude and admiration for the incredible journey we have shared together over the past 12 incredible years at Dunya News.

Our time working side by side has been nothing short of remarkable. From the very beginning (Aug 2012), it was evident that we were destined to achieve great things together. Through countless projects, challenges, and triumphs, we have grown both personally and professionally, pushing each other to reach new heights.

On Sunday at office

Your unwavering dedication and commitment to excellence have been an inspiration to us all. Your expertise and knowledge have been invaluable, and I am grateful for the countless lessons I have learned from you. Together, we have tackled complex problems, celebrated victories, and navigated through the ever-changing landscape of our (media) industry.

As you leave the office after 12 years of dedicated service, I wanted to take a moment to express my heartfelt appreciation for all that you have done. Throughout your time here, you have not only been a valuable colleague but also a true friend to everyone.

One of the most remarkable qualities about you is your kind heart. You have consistently shown generosity and thoughtfulness towards me, going above and beyond to make me feel valued and cared for. Your willingness to spend your own money to treat me to lunches, dinners, over a cup of tea has left an indelible mark on me. Your genuine concern for others has not only brightened our days but also fostered a sense of camaraderie and unity among us.

At Area Study Centre, Quaid-i-Azam University 

Beyond your generosity, your dedication to your work has been truly inspiring. Your commitment and professionalism have set a high standard for all of us to follow. Your wealth of knowledge and experience has been invaluable, and you have always been willing to share your expertise and lend a helping hand whenever needed.

Another highlight of our journey was when we decided to pursue our M.Phil. degree together from Quaid-i-Azam University (QAU). The countless hours spent studying, researching, and supporting each other amid the ups and downs of our professional journey (side by side) was not an easy task. With you Mr. Maken, I was able to cross all hurdles comfortably. Because of your punctuality, I made you waiting for hours, from NUML metrobus stop to Majeed Huts (now demolished) and from the central library of QAU to NIPS huts or anywhere I promised to join. But, I have never received that expected wrath from you once. While our academic affairs (now close to an end) will forever be etched in my memory, it is a testament to our shared determination and thirst for knowledge.

At Information Service Academy,  PID as the chief guests  

Mr. Maken, as you embark on this new chapter of your life, I want to extend my heartfelt wishes for success and fulfillment. May your path be filled with exciting opportunities, personal growth, and the realization of your dreams. I have no doubt that you will continue to excel in all that you do, leaving an indelible mark wherever you go.

While it saddens me to bid you farewell, I am comforted by the knowledge that our bond extends beyond the confines of our workplace. I hope that our paths will cross again in the future, allowing us to reminisce about the incredible memories we have created and experienced together.

Thank you for being an exceptional colleague, mentor, and friend. The impact you have had on my professional journey is immeasurable, and I will forever cherish the moments we shared.

With the young officers of Information Group at ISA

I will miss your presence in the office, but I am excited for the opportunities that lie ahead for you. Wishing you all the best in your future endeavors. May the same kindness and warmth you have shown be reciprocated in every aspect of your life. Stay in touch, and remember that you will always have a special place in my heart.

It feels hard to imagine my work environment without the presence of you Maken Sain. Though this may be the end of our professional journey together, our friendship and memories will forever endure. Farewell, dear colleague.

With heartfelt anticipation and excitement for your future!

Mahtab Bashir is Islamabad based journalist, who strongly believes this is the right time to abolish the Media Studies department(s) from universities across Pakistan.

HEALTHCARE PROVIDERS URGE TO USE KIND WORDS, SHOW EMPATHY TOWARDS PATIENTS, ATTENDANTS

Mahtab Bashir
0333 53 63 248
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
Islamabad

Healthcare providers need to use kind words in soft voice and show empathy towards patients as people only go to the hospitals when they are in pain and require love and affection in addition to proper medical treatment, health experts said on Sunday.

“Kind words, soft voice and empathy is the perfect recipe for the cure and treatment of patients while arrogant physicians and healthcare workers lose their ability to effectively treat sick people”, Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan, Vice Chancellor, Health Services Academy (HSA) said while speaking at launching of thematic calendar titled ‘languages of love’.

The 25th thematic calendar titled titled “Mohabat Ki Zubanain” carrying introduction of 12 leading languages spoken in entire Pakistan has been prepared by the Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum (JMAF), an off-shoot of pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo and its launching ceremony was addressed and attended by renowned literary personalities as well as top healthcare professionals from Islamabad and Rawalpindi.

A Mushaira was also held at the unveiling ceremony of the thematic calendar, which was presided over by renowned poet Iftikhar Arif while several other poets including inam-ul-Haq Javed, Afzal Khan, Ajmal Siraj also presented their poetry and verses.

Prof. Shahzad Ali Khan maintained that pain and agony compel a sick person to go a healthcare provider but the patient equally needs empathy and kindness in addition to proper medical treatment of diseases.

 
“Studies have shown that kindness and empathy fuel recovery of the patients while arrogance, harshness and cold attitude by the healthcare providers often delay recovery and even result in deaths of the patients”, Prof. Khan observed.

Lauding the Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum and pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo for selecting ‘languages of love’ as the theme of their 25th calendar, he said there is a saying that hospital walls have heard more prayers then worship places including mosques, churches and temples and urged healthcare providers to talk softly to patients and their attendants who need encouragement and empathy.

He maintained that fine arts has an important connection with scientific innovations as most of the scientific innovations came from Eastern Europe which was hub of art and literature and urged doctors, nurses and paramedics to spare some time for studying literature, listening to music and indulging in some healthy activity.

Advising healthcare providers especially doctors and nurses to learn as much languages as possible, he said talking to patients and their attendants in their own languages also increase their confidence on healthcare providers, adding that nowadays people were losing their faith in doctors and healthcare providers due to their commercial attitude and approach.

Renowned poet and Iftikhar Arif lauded Jahen-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum for their efforts in promoting art and literature among Pakistani physicians as well as common people, saying it was commendable to see some people and organizations which are striving hard to promote art, literature, book reading culture, poetry and linguistics in the country.

“Jahan-e-Maseeha Adbi Forum is the off-shoot of pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo, which is promoting literature and poetry in the country. Creation of thematic calendars on diversified themes after months and years of research is a commendable effort”, Iftikhar Arif added.

He said launch of a literacy piece on the theme of uniting people of Pakistan through languages of lover on 16th December was a commendable effort as it will the nation to learn from the past mistakes.
Prominent poet, journalist and linguist Ajmal Siraj said after a year-long research, they had come up with a thematic calendar on the theme of Pakistani languages, saying their research revealed that most of the regional languages in Pakistan were not only stable but they were evolving and progressing with the creation of literature and poetry in them.

He maintained that Pakistani regional languages were playing an important role in cultural diversity and keeping the country united, adding that as a multi-lingual country, Pakistan was contributing to the high quality literature and poetry on globally.

Deputy CEO of the pharmaceutical firm PharmEvo Syed Jamshaid Ahmed said for the last 24 years, they were preparing thematic calendars, holding book fairs, publishing books on art, literature and poetry and holding Mushairas to promote the soft image of Pakistan and promote ethics in the field of medicine marketing.

“It is the 25th calendar in 24 years history of PharmeEvo. We started as a small company and now we are the 17th largest company in Pakistan, which believes in ethics, healthy competition and creation of a healthy society”, he added. He maintained that they were among only three companies which were WHO –prequalified and producing medicines of international standards.

He also felicitated the team behind creation of thematic calendar saying it takes several months and even years to conduct research for coming up with pieces of art and literature and added that they were trying to create a positive impact on the society.

UNBRIDLED SOCIAL MEDIA USERS & ELECTIONS 2024 IN PAKISTAN

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
ISLAMABAD

033 53 53 248

Amidst uncertainties and repeated claims of “level playing open field by the country’s establishment”, neither political parties nor the voters seem enthusiastic about the upcoming general elections scheduled to be held on February 8, 2024 in Pakistan. There, nevertheless, is a place, called X (formerly twitter) though which is still buzzing with fury, fumes and fires where one can see not only jailed Imran Khan, convict-free Nawaz Sharif, his video-famed daughter Maryam Nawaz and somewhere in between Zardari’s untested horse, Bilawal Bhutto spewing venom against each other. Don’t forget that kingmakers are equally busy on the X platform by reassuring to none other than Pakistanis that they will continue to stay “neutral”.

The witty, the wily and the wicked social media teams of PTI, PML(N) and PPP are posing quite a show on this cyber platform, which by all means seems to be dominated by team-Imran. Team-Maryam is not very far behind while our beloved inter services public relations (ISPR) remains more active than Bilawal’s brigade.

Interestingly, digital and social media in Pakistan has seen an unprecedented spike in recent years. According to a data portal, Pakistan had 98.2 million internet users, 53 million social media users, and 183.5 million mobile connections as of January 2023. The most popular social media platforms in Pakistan are YouTube, Facebook, WhatsApp, Instagram, and TikTok. The digital media market in Pakistan is also projected to grow from $469.7 million in 2020 to $1,009.8 million by 2025, with video-on-demand being the largest segment.

According to a study done by Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT), Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) was the most active and popular political party on Facebook and Twitter during the 2018 general elections, followed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP). However, since 2018, the reach and excess of PTI have almost doubled. Furthermore, after the change in government in April 2022, the popularity of PTI has reached a new zenith in the digital industry in Pakistan.

As per our latest random checks Imran Khan has a following of 20 million on X (formerly twitter), followed by Maryam Nawaz with 8 million and ISPR with 6.2 million while Bilawal carries 5.1 million. On the Facebook ISPR seems to be elading with 20 million followers while Imran is second choice of with 14 million while both Bilawal (0.26 million) and Maryam Nawaz (0.19 million) friends.

Imran Khan the nemesis of kingmakers remains an issue is in jail and Even Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz), the supposed “pick” of the kingmakers for this round of election-saga is finding it appropriate to collect the “electable” than hold public rallies, while Peoples Party is quite content with holding on to its two-decade old drip on province of Sindh.

Amid the boiling political temperatures on these social media platforms, the heated or should I say hate-words have become a routine in particular between PTI and PMLN. PPP is visibly staying focused on attacking PMLN for having a deal with the kingmakers while handful of PTI followers are busy throwing their venomous words against PML-N as well as the establishment.

In recent times, social media has become a battleground for political parties in Pakistan, with supporters using pet names like 'Patwari (Nawaz Leaguers)' and 'Youthia (Imran followers)' to label and attack each other. These pet names are considered offensive by the followers of each camp hence is generating lots of hate spewing from both sides of the aisle.

Recently, this social media battle between PTI (Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf) and PML-N (Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz) touched another pinnacle soon after the airing of a prime time TV anchor (Shahzeb Khanzada’s) interview with Mian Khawar Manika- former husband of Imran Khan’s current wife Bushra Bibi. Ever since, PTI supporters not only labelling Khawar Manika a person of dual standards but also uploading semi-nude pictures of Geo anchor Shahzeb Khanzada.

One of the consumers, after that interview in his post on social media retorts, “This person (Manika) does not belong to Manika Family but seems like belonging with Sharif Family (Patwaris). After a span of five years, he got to remember that Imran Khan used to visit my house to meet my own wife.” In response, a PML-N supporter says, “..and interestingly, five years ago, a person who used to visit Manika house to meet his wife, has now become a “spiritual father” of an educated class (youthians)”. Another PTI supporter jibed back, “A person who reckon Imran Khan an angel five years ago, instantly become “a father of Patwaris” after airing an interview.

Over the last few years and especially since the debacle of PTI-regime and May 9th incident (supposed burning of a Jinnah House by PTI supporters), the social media has become a significant platform for political parties in Pakistan to engage with their supporters and promote their ideologies either in positive or negative ways. Both PTI and PML-N have a strong presence on various social media platforms, and their supporters are often quite vocal in expressing their views.

PML-N leaders are using the social media to claim they have entered into a deal with the kingmakers and Mian Nawaz Sharif is set to be the next prime minister once again. This prompots a PTI supporter, who spontaneously, snaps back on Face book, “The one who has been asking people (of Pakistan): Mujhay kion nikala, wo bhi Pakistan ko mushkil se nkalane ki batain kar raha hay.” (A person who has been asking: Why have I been thrown out? is pledging people of Pakistan to get the country out of current turmoil”.

As far as the establishment is concerned, PTI supports are the only one currently criticizing Pakistani military establishment especially on the issue of May 9 chaos. Now that, majority of PTI parliamentarians has quit PTI condemning the May 9 incident and has joined Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP), yet the workers and supporters of PTI are apparently standing intact (at least by looking at the social media accounts and exchanges) criticizing establishment, because of the recent surveys which highlights PTI popularity graph skyrocketing while PML-N stands nowhere near rather has shown a declining trajectory.

Pakistan's military establishment is also not leaving these social media platforms unattended as they continue to use this platform to release new songs, motivational statements and even claims that they will stay neutral and let the political parties battle it out within themselves. Despite having directly ruled the country for over 35 years and at other times being accused of "political engineering," the ISPR every now and then comes up with the “neutral” statement just to stir the PTI camp to make mockery of such claims while PML (N) supporters to praise them for gallantry.

Former army chief Qamar Javed Bajwa, in a retirement speech late last year, even spoke of "constant meddling by the army in politics for the last 70 years." Bajwa went on to say that the military had changed its ways and was staying out of politics. But that did not placate Khan and his supporters, who blame the establishment for his downfall in a no-confidence vote in April 2022. Some of the PTI supports believe that "there is a growing perception, even in its historically most captive regions like Punjab, that the army oversteps its boundaries in the name of national security.”

The military and its civilian political allies have responded to such PTI bashing by organizing a full-blown PR campaign on ground as well as on social media. This includes pro-army rallies and events commemorating soldiers' sacrifices. A PTI turn-coat Dr. Firdous Ashiq who has joined Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) as Central Information Secretary recently was quoted in the media saying that the baseless and fabricated narrative constructed by PTI was actually the ‘conspiracy’ to destroy the roots of Pakistan—the narrative was set up to pollute the minds of the youth. Firdous said that the conspiracy was hatched to create chaos in society through incidents like May 9 riots.

The political crisis gripping Pakistan is anything but predictable. But with Khan seemingly on the ropes, establishment is getting on with its usual march to quell any spears thrown directly at them by making two recent moves to deter this trend. Major (rtd) Adil Farooq Raja and Captain (rtd) Haider Raza Mehdi, both former army officers with large following on YouTube, were handed 14 and 12 years of jail sentence respectively following their Field General Court Martial for “inciting sedition”, the military’s media wing said on Saturday.

In a statement, the Inter-Service Public Relations (ISPR) said both retired officers were convicted and sentenced “under the Pakistan Army Act, 1952 for the charges of inciting sedition among army personnel from discharge of duties and violation of the provisions of Official Secrets Act, 1923 related to espionage and acts prejudicial to the safety and interest of the state”.

Selection Before Elections in Pakistan?

Mahtab Bashir
mahtabbashir@gmail.com
0333 53 63 248
Islamabad

The return of former prime minister Nawaz Sharif to Pakistan has not generally been welcomed by masses as they keep buzzing the social media with interesting but logical quotes like “no one knows the exact date of general elections, but everyone knows who is the next PM”, or “Selection before elections is a norm not an exception”.

Former PM promoting peace to move forward

Amidst a chaotic political spectrum ever since the breaking of love-bondage between Imran Khan and the powerful military establishment in April 2022, return of court-convicted Nawaz Sharif from his self-imposed exile in London hinged mainly on Generals and partially on judiciary, and his personal safety.

Despite having a Constitution, an apparently functional judicial set up and an Election Commission, no one in the country knows when the next general elections will be held after dissolution of National Assembly in August 2023. Purportedly, the Constitution of the country claims that General Elections should be held within 90 days of dissolution of the assembly but the Independent Judiciary is busy defining the “hidden” meanings of the Constitutional ambiguous language. Election Commission is another Constitutionally Independent institution and is too busy to clarify the mist by claiming that they are working out the modalities to hold elections in the country.

 
Technically, Nawaz Sharif is an absconder in the eyes of Pakistani law (or at least he was until he decided to use a private jet to leave his controversial London Avenfield apartments). Yet, the rolling cameras showed that he received the protocol of a Prime Minister in waiting. All doors were opened for him, all courtesies were extended to him and it was nothing short of a red-carpet welcome. Even the courts, which were hostile to him and ousted him in what was dubbed as a judicial coup by Nawaz-camp in 2017, were ready to accommodate his ‘honourable’ return.

 
With Nawaz’s come back, on October 21, to some extent has categorically given the impression that he is going to be the next prime minister of Pakistan for the fourth and perhaps last time as he is once again the Army’s chosen one to take on his bete noire Imran Khan.

On the other hand, it is still believed in one quarter of society that, if Imran Khan is allowed a free hand in the forthcoming general elections, he would sweep the polls. In a recent Gallup survey, Imran soars over Nawaz in popularity and going by that account PTI would leave PML-N biting the dust.

 
However, erstwhile kingmakers seems to have found a magic potion from their storage facility to wipe off this ‘so-called’ Gallups and opinion polls by introducing Nawaz Sharif in a brand new packing.

Interestingly, there is no national reconciliation order this time because this engineered potion is helping the courts to see the new writings on the wall more clearly than ever before. The “Engineers” seems to have also collected flotsam and jetsam of PTI deserters—commonly known as ‘electables’- and corralled them together into the Istehkam-e-Pakistan Party (IPP) in Punjab and PTI-Parliamentarians in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K-P). Both these new parties led by two of Imran Khan’s closest lieutenants, Jehangir Tareen (once known as ATM of Imran Khan) and Pervez Khattak respectively. Both these parties are expected to fragment the verdict in a way that they would let the engineers ensure and to some extent hold the balance of power in the centre, Punjab and K-P.

 
Though the country’s military establishment (often called deep state on social media discussion forums) appears reconciled to seeing Nawaz Sharif back in the saddle by making all such arrangements but it remains a fact that it doesn’t trust him beyond a certain line and do not want him to go rogue once again and try to put the army in its rightful place. After all, in all his three previous innings, Nawaz Sharif was ousted because he got into a scrap with the Generals. His relations with all the Army chiefs he dealt with -- especially those he appointed himself -- have also always been strained. Nawaz has the habit of calling the shots and that s exactly what pits him against the military, which isn’t ready to submit to civilian authority.

The Army will therefore ensure that even if Nawaz lives by the ‘formula’ and gets a fourth term, he will be politically hobbled by being forced to head a coalition government, whose strings will be controlled by the GHQ in Rawalpindi. Normally, the life of coalitions in Pakistan ranges between 18 months to 32 months and even less so because it will have to take many really tough decisions to put the country back on track (at least economically).

Although questions will be raised about the legitimacy of any elections in which Imran Khan is not allowed to participate, but these questions are unlikely to bother the power players in Pakistan. Legitimacy is an overrated virtue in Pakistani politics where power brings its own legitimacy.

Former Balochistan Chief Minister, Aslam Raisani, had once famously said a graduation degree is a degree regardless of whether it is genuine or fake; similarly, in Pakistan, an election victory is an election victory regardless of whether it came from popular support or Engineering. There have been any number of elections in the past in which the dice was loaded against one or the other party. But that never stopped the victors from claiming legitimacy; nor did it make people rise up in revolt over their mandate being denied or stolen.

From Nawaz Sharif’s perspective though, problem is not so much about the legitimacy of the political process but it is about his and his party’s dwindling popularity. There is no denying the fact that he has a support base; but it also has become quite evident that it is no longer the powerhouse it was five years ago. He will need to rebuild this power-base, if he has to have any chance of governing even moderately well. His coming home party - the rally in Lahore - is seen moderately by many in terms of the crowd turnout. It wasn’t the largest collection of people at the Minar-e-Pakistan grounds, but it was big enough for the PML-N to claim that it is on the upswing with Nawaz having returned.

If Nawaz Sharif’s speech is anything to go by, he doesn’t really have a solidly worked out plan on how to fix the economy. There was all the usual stuff of what would be done but absolutely nothing about how it would be done. All he offered was generalities about the agenda of the party to revive the country, but there were no specifics. Even the agenda had nothing new to offer. It was more of the same, old and tired and tried slogans: Increase exports, bring about an IT revolution, cut government expenses and reform the taxation system, creating employment and reforming the public sector etc. All this has been spoken and promised countless times earlier with absolutely nothing to show for it. What will be different this time? No one really knows. In any case, Nawaz Sharif’s model of development is to go for big fancy projects that everyone can see and feel but zero fundamental reform. There is no reason to believe that he has anything different to offer in his fourth innings but he is the one to be owned.