THE overall political, economic and social progress of Pakistan, a country still developing in many ways, is severely impeded by the absence of due working relations between the political opponents lately.

On this day, as we celebrate the Eidul Azha, all of us would do well to remember that the need of the hour is unity among the main political players and between the political and security establishments to face the challenges that lie ahead. The withdrawal of American forces from Afghanistan has once again made the region the centre of global interests.

The uncertainty about the future of Afghanistan, with the Taliban and Afghan forces pitched against each other at various places, is posing serious questions for the world, the region, and, most importantly, for Pakistan, as there are clear signals that hostile intelligence agencies have already started executing their nefarious plans.

The recent briefing by military top brass to all the main stakeholders and the subsequent government decision to hold talks with ‘angry Baloch tribal leaders’ have paved the way for a necessary and crucial understanding between the civilian and military establishment at this critical time.

All the participants agreed that the successful handling of the ongoing security situation lies in political harmony. It is good to see that the stakeholders understand the need for political stability.

Security, in my opinion, is one of the biggest challenges for Pakistan. As a test case, or as the first step towards a much broader understanding and resolve, at least security should be a subject on which we need to have a united stance and all the main players should be on the same page.

In these uncertain times, a dysfunctional parliament, disharmony between the civilian and military leaderships and, most vitally, the polarisation among political leaders, will only hurt the case, stance and stand of Pakistan in the corridors of global power.

Syed Hamza Younas
Peshawar

Published in Dawn, July 21st, 2021