ISLAMABAD: Former Sindh governor Dr Ishratul Ibad Khan on Sunday emphasised the importance of rejecting narratives that were aimed at creating a rift between armed forces and the people and suggested a national dialogue to solve the country’s issues.

During a virtual meeting with business leaders from Islamabad and Rawalpindi held at the Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industry (ICCI), he stressed the need to maintain unity and support for the armed forces, who were making immense sacrifices for the country.

Mr Khan highlighted the importance of respecting and honouring the armed forces and law enforcement personnel, who were dedicating their lives for the nation’s future. He also noted that there may be individuals who commit wrongdoings in any institution and it was crucial to hold them accountable rather than tarnishing the reputation of the entire winstitution.

He warned that when the bond between the government and the people weakens or disintegrates, enemies, both internal and external, exploit the situation to their advantage. He highlighted the enemy’s strategy of driving a wedge between the masses and the armed forces by propagating a narrative that the latter is solely responsible for the people’s problems. This, he emphasised, is a deliberate attempt to create divisions and undermine national unity.

He expressed concern over the pressing issues facing the country, particularly the growing sense of hopelessness among youth, entrepreneurs and various segments of society. He identified political instability, financial crisis and poor law and order as the underlying causes of these problems. He said the government must take a proactive approach, anticipating and addressing challenges head-on and ensuring that its efforts were visible and satisfactory to the public.

He called for across-the-board accountability to tackle the country’s multiple challenges.

He acknowledged the business community as the economy’s true stakeholders, commending their tireless efforts for the country’s well-being.

However, he criticised the Independent Power Producers (IPPs) as a “vicious cycle” contributing to circular debt, foreign debt, decreased exports, factory closures, high business costs and unemployment.

He urged the government to prioritise national interests and resolve the issue promptly, focusing on the greater good rather than political interests.

Published in Dawn, August 26th, 2024