ISLAMABAD: Interior Minister Sheikh Rashid Ahmed’s third book, Lal Haveli to United Nations, launched on Wednesday, was described as a fascinating piece of literature filled with honest insight into Pakistan’s evolving politics.

Speakers, mostly journalists, took turns to talk about Mr Rashid’s political career, which began while he was still a student.

“It is an honest book by a candid man. It has been written the way he speaks and I can vouch for the historical facts mentioned in the book,” said television anchor Mohammad Malik.

While Saleem Safi cautioned that he would highlight some revelations from the book in his programme, he appreciated the candid narration about the struggle of a man from the middle class towards making important contributions in Pakistan’s politics. “Sheikh Rashid has done the job of a historian in his new book,” he said.

Fawad Chaudhry says interior minister is a politician whose views, analysis helped media understand future of politics

Minister for Planning Asad Umar described Mr Rashid as a fascinating man and a unique politician from whom many could learn important lessons.

He said he was honoured to work with Mr Rashid who he found on his side in difficult times in politics.

Similarly, Mujibur Rehman Shami said that he started his journalistic career around the same time that Mr Rashid set foot into politics.

“Sheikh Rashid continues to play his role in Pakistan’s politics with full force. He has complete command over street politics and has never lost the confidence of his supporters,” Mr Shami said.

In his remarks, Minister for Information Fawad Chaudhry said, “Here is a politician, whose views and analysis helps media understand the future of politics in the country.”

Mr Rashid said he was humbled by the support extended to him by his friends and colleagues, adding that his book was written for Kashmiris who need support, youth and the working man.

Announcing complete support to Prime Minister Imran Khan, he said that the country was gradually moving towards elections.

“In any attempt to sabotage or compromise the democratic process, the opposition will only find itself in problems. I am confident that the democratic system will only get better,” he said.

Published in Dawn, January 6th, 2022