China: a tale of civilisation: Part – I
Every civilisation develops in its own environment and acquires a different identity and characteristics. As a result, we find a unique character in China’s civilisation that is different from other…
Of civil and military relations
As the baton has now passed to Gen Qamar Javed Bajwa, there is no shortage of free advice consisting of dos’ and don’ts for the new army chief. While some…
It is the civil service, stupid
Pakistan must be the world's top ranked country in setting up commissions. Some time bound (Hamoodur Rehman, Abbottabad), whose reports are never released, just leaked; some in perpetuity (flood, relief,…
Civil-military imbalance
The ISPR press release after the corps commanders meeting, has generated unnecessary controversy over civil-military relations. It has surprised many, especially in the backdrop of the frequent huddles between the…
Terminology matters
The recent decision by Al Jazeera English to use the word ’refugees’ instead of ’migrants’ to describe the thousands of people who risk their lives to make dangerous journeys to…
Space for civil society
“If leaders do not listen to their people, they will hear from them — in the streets, the squares, or, as we see far too often, on the battlefield. There…
Civil-military imbalance
The security establishment is firmly in the driving seat. It is calling the shots with respect to the multiple internal security challenges facing the nation. Caught in a political quagmire,…
The army has to decide, not (hapless) civilians
We should be able to cut through the simulated confusion. If Pakistan gets into any part of the Yemen mess, if Pakistani troops are sent or not sent, if Pakistan…
Understanding the role of adjudications in disciplinary matters
There is a change in government's policy with regard to disciplinary actions. A study of the show cause notices recently issued indicates that the framed charges are not only flimsy…
National agenda matters
It is exciting to reconnect with The News. This is a paper whose Islamabad edition I have had the honour of leading. The first copy of The News carried some…
