By AVM Faaiz Amir (R) 14 February 2024
The illusion of stability built upon the shaky foundations of electoral fraud is a dangerous gamble with the destiny of our nation. These farcical elections were not mere contests of political will but grotesque spectacles of power abused, trust shattered, and voices silenced. They were so brazen and shameful that they stand as glaring evidence of the depths of deceit and betrayal within our institutions. They stand as a testament to the character of those who lead these institutions.
In the shadow of rigged ballots and manipulated outcomes, the very essence of democracy was trampled upon with impunity. What should have been a beacon of hope for the governed became a stark reminder of the unchecked might of the governing. Such flagrant disregard of the sacred trust teaches a damning lesson: that the pursuit of power at any cost, even at the expense of truth and justice, is not only condoned but celebrated.
The damning reports by the media, both national and international, stand as a stark indictment of those who would sacrifice the integrity of our institutions on the altar of personal gain. Pakistanis across the globe, who watched intently their kith kin exercise their right to choose who governs their affairs, stand disgusted and repulsed by the ghastly outcome of the exercise.
These elections marred by deception and coercion sow the seeds of cynicism and despair, eroding the very foundation of our collective faith in democratic ideals. The grossly manipulated elections leave in their wake a fractured society haunted by the images of injustice, inequality, and violence.
The history of our nation is a testimony to the fractures inflicted upon the social fabric by such reckless actions that haunt generations to come. Chapters of our history serve as a sobering reminder of the consequences of betraying the trust of the people and forsaking the principles of democracy. Posterity will not forgive those who prioritise personal gains over the well-being of the people, leading the country down a path of discord and disillusionment.
Those who seek economic progress amidst the political instability unleashed by these elections, and those who naively believe normalcy will soon return are steering the nation perilously close to the edge of a precipice. Those who bask in the temporary glory of their positions of power will ultimately face the judgment of history steering the nation towards a future marred by division and uncertainty.
The need to restore the true essence of democracy stares in our faces. The voice of people needs to be heard and honoured. Addressing the challenges that we face necessitates a commitment to upholding the rule of law, respecting human rights, and accepting outcomes that genuinely reflect the will of the people. Promoting a culture of transparency, accountability, and ethical leadership is essential to combat the corrosive effects of rigged elections on societal norms and values.