by MUBARAK ALI
It is assumed that politicians have a deeper understanding of social, political and economical issues of society. Since they have the power, capacity and talent to solve issues, they can transform society by controlling serious crises.
In reality, what politicians do is that instead of changing old and outdated systems, they strengthen these existing systems to enjoy the privileges and facilities that are provided to them. They abhor change which could be fatal for their interests and could displace them from their elite footing.
In The Republic, Plato analyses the role of politicians and points out that their objective is limited and their agenda, short term. Their sole interest is that as long as they remain in power, there should not be any displacement of status quo which might destabilise them. They always exploit people through their rhetoric and those who are skilled in the art of persuasion, easily win over public opinion. Their only interest is in rising to power. Therefore, instead of working towards changing society, they accept public opinion and cater to the demands of the majority. This criticism holds true even today, in our modern democratic system.
In Pakistan, we observe that from the very beginning, our politicians have never tried to change the old system but have most enthusiastically followed public opinion. Those politicians who were not religious in their private lives became fanatically religious just to win the support of the people.
For instance, Ayub Khan, who claimed to be liberal and modern, established several religious institutions and patronised religious scholars to express his piety, in order to win over the support of people. Similarly, when Z.A. Bhutto assumed power, he readily succumbed to the opinion of religious parties, implemented their agenda and set a precedent. Since then, nearly all political parties and their leaders have meekly followed the opinion of religious parties and hence failed to change society.
Dawn for more