THE curtain fell rather unceremoniously on Imran Khan’s tenure in a swift and dramatic turn of events. While much has been said elsewhere about the happenings of that night leading to the fateful vote of no-confidence, what particularly struck out was the celebratory call for the ‘Purana Pakistan’ following the ouster of the government.

Although people suffered from inflation and had to endure one contradiction after another during the tenure of the previous government, those welcoming Pakistanis back to ‘Purana Pakistan’, including Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari, are not earning any brownie points. In fact, the act indicates gross oversight and missed opportunity on the part of such souls to understand why Imran Khan had gained popularity in the first place long before his election victory.

To be sure, the former prime minister often made promises that he did not keep and disappointed many of his ardent fans. Yet, this does not take away from why so many Pakistanis believed in him to deliver on his promise of ensuring equity, justice and representation to the people.

While many do not want the ‘Naya Pakistan’ that made life unbearable owing to back-breaking inflation, most do not want a return to ‘Purana Pakistan’ either, which did not care for the common man.

The present and future administrations must take note of why the slogan of a ‘Naya Pakistan’ attracted so many people and brought them out on the streets.

Semantics aside, until a Pakistan that is reflective of the aspirations and needs of the people is brought forth by those in power, Pakistanis will continue to fight for better governance that promises representation, and will continue to look for a sincere leadership.

Sarah Ahmed
Karachi

Published in Dawn, April 16th, 2022