The situation has changed now. We have been left free, and America can do whatever it wants to do in the region with or without our help. Yet, we had a chance, and it was in our interest to side with America; particularly when the reason is noble. Our leaders availed the chance and took the best decision, and they should not feel shy about it. They should look into the hearts of their people, who are peace-less, jobless, business-less and even bread-less; this new dilemma brought by the Black Tuesday has made them sleepless as well. They do not want militancy. They know that the decision of the government is right and the whole world is behind the Americans in their right fight against an evil called terrorism. They also know that alliance of Pakistan with America is a must to undo the wrongs done by the militancy in Afghanistan and Pakistan. They are pleased with, and thankful to America and to the Generals and to the politicians and to the intellectuals for their wise actions and reactions.� But they are surprised as to why everybody including the Government is on the defensive. That is why they are raising the questions.
Now when the MQM, PPP, ANP and the PML are so openly with the government in its fight against terrorism, the people would like it to behave bravely, and they would also like the Americans to act wisely and cautiously. Not only in Afghanistan but also in Pakistan. A broad based government to be installed using mostly political, democratic or consultative, means is required in Afghanistan. Accordingly to Pakistan, America has to do more than it has been doing in the past. It has to see to it that the assistance it offers (if it offers) should not move back to the USA via Swiss Banks and armament companies. We have plenty of bombs and guns and tanks and submarines. We don?t need more. Neither we need the politico-militaristic-orthodoxy (American given gift). If the attitudes of American state have really changed, and if it could influence our ruling elite to make it spend more on the society, and turn to progressive democracy; and if it happens, we would pray for America staying here with us for infinite times while conducting its operation infinite justice, and spreading its message of infinite freedom; and sharing its infinite prosperity with the infinite poor. But is America coming in that big way---to Pakistan? Have we offered enough of help? Are we sticking to our earlier commitments? Answers lie with time, and that is not that far. |