AS the sun gets ready to set one last time in 2024, it is time for serious reflection on the state of our nation, its progress, and the challenges that have defined the year that will be history in a few hours. It is undeniable that the year has been difficult for the people of Pakistan. The challenges faced by the country have been multif-aceted and pervasive, touching every aspect of society.

The absence of meaningful reforms and an incoherent policy agenda prevented the government from effectively addre-ssing the country’s most pressing issues. The rise in terrorist activities became a growing threat to the safety of the people. Bombings, shootings and targeted attacks created an atmosphere of fear as well as insecurity.

The failure of the government to combat the terrorists effectively undermined public confidence. Security forces did their best, but the lack of political will and a clear strategy left many feeling vulnerable and helpless.

The harsh conditions imposed by the International Monetary Fund (IMF) on the government resulted in austerity measures that placed an additional burden on the people. Rising taxes, and cuts in social services were just some of the consequences of these measures. While the government may have seen this as a necessary step to avoid default, the public’s suffering intensified, making it even harder for the people to make ends meet.

The political polarisation deepened significantly. Instead of focussing on national issues, political parties, mainly the main opposition party, chose to keep the government busy in tackling the law and order situation by creating chaos through marches and sit-ins. Personal and party interests took precedence over the national interest, causing crucial decisions to be delayed or ignored. These protests not only resulted in the tragic loss of the precious lives of security personnel, but also disturbed life across the country. The lack of political unity has become one of the major obstacles to progress, preventing Pakistan from addressing its structural issues in a coordinated and comprehensive manner.

It is impossible to ignore the rise of nationalist movements, particularly in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) as well as Balochistan. There was also a disturbing rise in sectarian violence, particularly in Parachinar, which has been a hotspot for sectarian clashes for years. The escalation of sectarian violence not only tore apart communities, but also under-mined the social fabric of the nation.

The failures of 2024 should not be dismissed as mere setbacks; they must serve as a wake-up call for both the people and the government. The time for comp-lacency has passed, and we must take bold, decisive steps to reverse the course of decline.

The government must acknowledge the gravity of the situation and commit to a new era of austerity, transparency, accountability and effective governance. Political leaders must put aside their personal ambitions, and focus on the greater good of the nation. Institutional reforms and anti-corruption measures must be implemented urgently.

The government must focus on creating sustainable growth, reducing inflation and providing opportunities for employ-ment. The security situation demands immediate attention. Structural reforms, such as better tax collection, and the formalisation of the informal economy, will be key to achieving this goal.

It is time for Pakistan to chart its own economic course, free from the stringent conditions imposed by international financial institutions. Let 2025 be the year of renewal, reform and revival for Pakistan.

Sajid Ali Bangash
Hangu

Published in Dawn, December 31st, 2024