IT was gratifying for the entire nation to see a smooth transition from one democratically elected civilian government to another. Imran Khan carried on a relentless anti-corruption campaign, which made Pakistan Tehreek-i-Insaf a majority party in parliament. The new government must be given enough time to settle down and formulate its policies on finance, defence, foreign affairs and on the home front in consultation and conjunction with parliament.

There is no doubt Imran is the people’s prime minister, who succeeded in creating awakening, particularly among the middle class, on the issue of corruption at all levels. It is time to put aside threats as well as promises made in the heat of the election campaign. What we need now are realistic policies and their implementation.

Problems facing Pakistan on all fronts will not go away in Imran Khan’s 100-day programme; the problems will have to be dealt with throughout his tenure of office. This is the challenge of time. The end of the rule by two dynasties and the emergence of the PTI as a third political force is Imran Khan’s significant achievement. But the PTI government has to do a lot during the next five years. The tasks include nation building and uniting the entire country in its march towards peace, progress and prosperity in keeping with the principles, ideals and vision of Quaid-i-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah.

Prime Minister Imran Khan is the recipient of Jinnah Society’s Jinnah Award for outstanding services rendered to Pakistan much before he became our prime minister. The nation expects him to continue with his dedication to serving Pakistan.

President Dr Arif Alvi is the symbol of the federation. He is unlikely to be a president secluded in an ivory tower but one who will be very much alive and active in keeping the federation united in its march towards prosperity.

Liaquat H. Merchant

President, Jinnah Society

Karachi

Published in Dawn, September 8th, 2018