Democracy is badly exploited in our homeland. In the name of democracy, everything or every act that is unfair is fair; the illegitimate is legitimate; ignoble is noble and wrong is right.

It is the beauty of democracy that every person can enjoy his fundamental right and go on a ‘peaceful protest’, which is why protesters are holding thick sticks and iron rods in their hands; block roads; set state property ablaze; burn or damage public transport and private property.

In the name of democracy, everyone is free to say anything openly against anyone; level any allegation thoughtlessly, use abusive language and so on.

It is because of democracy that some so-called ‘intellectuals’ and ‘biased anchors’ on media are free to distort facts and present the reality of their own choice.

Any ‘popular leader’ being ambitious for power — not necessary with a majority can emerge anytime, gathering a mob through oratorical skills.

It is also due to democracy, that I also am free to coin a new word which aptly depicts the current scenario in Pakistan, and that is: It is democrazy, not democracy.

M. Ali Usmani

Daharki, Sindh

Published in Dawn, August 31, 2014