NO nation can successfully face and overcome difficult times unless its leaders inspire people by becoming role models. The legendary Nelson Mandela of South Africa is a classic case in this regard. He advocated the cause of equality and unity in the divided South African society. For his noble cause, he sacrificed 27 years of his life as a political prisoner. Eventually, Mandela ended the menace of apartheid, and made South Africans one nation.

Similar was the case of George Washington, the first American president, who upheld his beliefs in democracy and civilian rule both with his resignation as commander-in-chief and refusal to become third-time president of the United States. In this way, Washington closed the door on prolonged control of power in American politics. He set the precedent of a two-term presidency — a convention that continues to this day. However, such examples are rare to find in Pakistan where the scene has often been marked by mere lip-service. True leadership always sets examples worth emulating. We needs true leaders.

Rehab Sikandar
Karachi

Published in Dawn, May 8th, 2026