In a stark warning, Mohsin Dawar, leader of the National Democratic Movement, has raised concerns that the ongoing militancy in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa could spread across the entire nation.
Speaking during a discussion with Pakistani journalists and scholars near Washington, the Pashtun member of the National Assembly also expressed opposition to banning former Prime Minister Imran Khan and his supporters from future elections, citing the move as contradictory to democratic principles.
The briefing occurred just hours before a tragic blast rocked a JUI convention in Bajaur, heightening apprehensions about the mounting threat. The participants recognized the escalating danger, with militant groups like ISIS targeting religious figures, a situation they deemed to have severe repercussions.
“This will have very dangerous consequences,” Mr Dawar stated somberly during the discussion. He emphasized the urgent need to take action to prevent the growing militancy from disrupting the upcoming elections and potentially obstructing people’s participation in the democratic process.
Despite acknowledging the unpredictable nature of the situation, Mr Dawar firmly advocated for holding timely elections as the only viable option within a democratic framework. He discouraged exploring alternative arrangements and was unequivocal in his stance against empowering caretaker setups beyond their essential responsibilities.
Embracing Democracy Amidst Rising Militancy: A Critical Juncture for Pakistan’s Future
Regarding the calls to ban Imran Khan and PTI leaders from the elections, Mr Dawar asserted that such measures undermined democratic values. Instead, he urged authorities to present evidence against individuals involved in violence and let the judicial process determine their fate.
The discussion participants noted that Pakistan’s current scenario presented an opportunity for liberal and nationalist forces to gain traction. Anti-establishment sentiments were on the rise, and the former “traitor card” seemed ineffective. People were now eager to listen and understand previously marginalized voices.
However, Mr Dawar advised progressive and nationalist forces not to rely solely on the absence of PTI from the political process. He urged them to actively engage with the public, voice their views, and seek a mandate based on their own merit.
While some participants mentioned Shahid Khaqan Abbasi and Miftah Ismail’s attempt to form a new party, it was believed they might not have enough time to significantly impact the upcoming elections.
As Pakistan grapples with the threat of spreading militancy, the nation faces a crucial juncture where democratic norms and principles must be upheld to safeguard the nation’s future.