OWING to political instability in the country, the federal government seems to be struggling to deal with the real issues. Maleeha Lodhi, in a recent article (July 21), had argued that “picking daily fights” with political leaders “not only distracts attention from ongoing challenges but also sets up a divisive form of governance.” This does make sense.

To govern in the best interest of the public should be the utmost goal of a government.

Likewise, it is as much the opposition’s job to help devise better policies for the welfare of the citizens. But when the ruling party and the opposition alliance indulge in sabre-rattling in public, good governance goes out the window and the problems of the common man remain neglected.

Dysfunctional politics tends to hamper good governance as well as the policymaking mechanism.

Building consensus and reaching out to political opponents to forge trust is necessary to keep things on track, otherwise the ensuing political upheaval could lead the country towards polarisation. And we are not far from it already.

Instead of spending time finding scapegoats, the country will be better off if politics may move towards providing the masses with relief and succour. This is a humble appeal from a common man to all concerned.

Zahid Ali
Haripur

Published in Dawn, November 1st, 2020