Finance Bill 2017: Why tax exemption for political parties?
In a country where the Finance Minister is accused of money laundering [What did Ishaq Dar 'confess' to during the Hudaibiya Paper Mills reference in 2002, Dawn, April 20, 2017]…
A political shift
I was elected as a member of the National Assembly from the PML-N’s platform in 2013 under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif. I had laid the foundation for the Pakistan…
Into the political thicket
Among the many problems that afflict us, two are particularly vexatious. One, whether it is individuals or institutions, we seem less interested in doing our own job and more interested…
Strengthening democracy and political parties – II
The military often takes over power swiftly and comfortably without any meaningful resistance either during or after the process of the take-over. Prime ministers are put behind bars and sent…
Beyond personality disorders
WHAT is the source of Pakistan’s political instability? The answer varies depending on who one asks and what their political affiliation may be. But there is one thing that everyone…
BB and the art of realpolitik
The political career of Benazir Bhutto, who was assassinated on December 27, 2007, was a saga of fluctuating fortunes. Twice she was voted to power (1988 and 1993) and twice…
BB and the art of realpolitik
The political career of Benazir Bhutto, who was assassinated on December 27, 2007, was a saga of fluctuating fortunes. Twice she was voted to power (1988 and 1993) and twice…
Energising the young
Because I was a panelist in a few sessions and also because I have been a member of the outgoing governing body of the Pakistan Arts Council, Karachi, I would…
Our own PTSD
I AM proposing a new ailment unique to Pakistanis: Perpetual-Traumatic Stress Disorder. I am not making light of our situation. On the contrary, I’m asking we recognise how this PTSD…
When protests go too far
The recent brutal crackdown on protesters in Islamabad has not only brought the streets of the capital to a standstill but also ignited a larger conversation about the very nature…
