IN the heated arena of Pakistani politics, the recent remarks by PML-N vice president Maryam Nawaz, calling the PTI a “terrorist” party, mark a regrettable nadir in the quality of political discourse.

This venomous labelling is not only a departure from the decorum expected of a leader of one of the country’s major political parties but also a reflection of a disturbing trend in the country’s political narrative. Historically, Pakistani politics has been marred by acrimonious exchanges and character assassinations.

The PTI, under Imran Khan’s leadership, has been a significant contributor to this culture. Throughout the PML-N’s tenure in government, PTI’s adeptness at social media engineering was often used to vilify and mock their political adversaries. This trend of slander and personal attacks persisted even after the PTI ascended to power, with opposition members, critics and members of the media frequently becoming targets of derogatory remarks.

However, Ms Nawaz’s use of such a term is not just another addition to this list of slurs; it is an alarming escalation. The term ‘terrorist’ is loaded with serious implications, especially in a country like Pakistan, which has long battled the scourge of terrorism. To use it so flippantly to describe a political opponent is to undermine the gravity of actual terrorism.

It is crucial to remember that while elections are transient, the rhetoric employed during campaigns can have lasting effects on the fabric of society. The kind of language used by Ms Nawaz — and other politicians — has the potential to deepen existing divisions, sow mistrust, and exacerbate tensions.

Furthermore, the party’s decision to post visuals on social media featuring Mr Khan with the tag “no more politics in the name of religion” borders on the dangerous.

In our country, where religious sentiment runs deep, such rhetoric can have severe, even life-threatening consequences. It is one thing to engage in political critique, and quite another to weaponise religion in this manner, which, ironically, the PML-N itself appears to be doing. It is simply a red line that should never be crossed.

It is high time for all political parties to show restraint and rise above vicious name-calling and character assassination. Leaders must set an example, fostering a political culture grounded in respect, constructive debate, and tolerance for differing viewpoints.

Political opponents are just that: opponents, not enemies to be hated and eventually be vanquished. As we approach another election, politicians would do well to remember that while their primary goal may be to win votes, their responsibilities do not end there. They are also custodians of the nation’s social harmony.

The language they use and the narratives they promote will shape not just the outcome of the elections, but also the nature of Pakistani society in the years to come.

Published in Dawn, January 17th, 2024