WE have come a long way oscillating between military and civilian rules, and it was a pleasure to witness the third peaceful democratic transition of power. Imran Khan’s success in the elections, followed by his mature victory speech has been hailed and marks a new era in the history of Pakistan.

The PTI’s victory was evident months before the election. However, a distinct and sweeping victory was rather astounding given the PML N’s three-decade domination in Punjab. Now tougher tasks lie ahead. It is not going to be easy, and speed will be of the essence.

Because of his campaign motto of ‘Naya Pakistan’, much more is expected from Imran. Relations with India and the US, the Kashmir issue, dams and the FATF will test Khan’s capabilities as a leader.

He must pick his federal cabinet and team of senior advisors wisely. The same goes for all other appointments, policies and decisions that he is to make.

May Imran Khan’s leadership and vision bring the change the nation aspires to see!

Abdullah Saeed

Islamabad

(2)

IMRAN Khan has taught the nation a lesson of perseverance through his struggle for democracy. It was his dedication and determination that toppled the corrupt mafia in the country. The people who kept on looting the nation’s treasury finally reaped what they sowed and their aristocratic and dynastic government came to an end.

He defeated most of the candidates in their home constituencies which shows that the people had lost faith in their own leaders. In his victory speech he made some wise and bold promises. His desire to live in his own residence rather than in the prime minister house won the hearts of the people. I think that the country now has another sincere and competent leader after Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, and I pray that Allah gives him the strength to make Pakistan a prosperous country.

Zulfiqaar Ali

Parachinar

(3)

FINALLY, we are free from corrupt rulers. Imran Khan is going to become our new prime minister. I ask him to pay attention to the problems of minority groups such as the Shia community of Parachinar and the Quetta Hazara community. They have been living here for decades, but are still deprived of fundamental rights such as education, employment, freedom of movement and security.

Hundreds of people from both these communities have been killed in terror attacks.

The Hazara community cannot move freely and is being denied its rights. Their children cannot go to school because of targeted killing. It is my plea to the PTI government to pay heed to this issue.

Iram Batool

Faisalabad

Published in Dawn, August 8th, 2018