STRAIGHT TALK by Hafeez Khan
“Nalay Chor nalay Chataar” translates “being a thief and being defiant about it”. It truly reflects Pakistani political landscape. The focal point is the fake results announced by evil incarnate ECP. The participants of backroom manipulations may not be clear; however the executioners are etched in memories. Lead actor is ECP Raja Sikander Sultan. I exposed his attempted escape as High Commissioner to Canada in my previous article. My feedback thus far no formal approach has been made to the Canadian Government. We must stay vigilant to prevent such filth being exported to Canada.
ECP’s role received its protective cover of this broad daylight robbery through facilitation provided by Honorable Chief Justice of Pakistan. Depriving PTI of its election symbol, turning a blind eye to brutal suppression of their electoral candidates and ignoring fraudulent results are part of his “achievements”. All provincial IGPs and Chief Secretaries are equally soiled for carrying illegal orders and letting loose a reign of terror since April 2022. Sitting at the head of the table is our Army Chief. Being all powerful also brings total responsibility to his doorsteps. Unleashing unfettered force may bring short term gains; unfortunately it will lead to a dead-end for the country’s future.
Medical experts opine that certain viruses thrive only in darkness. They die the moment they are exposed to sunlight. Thus it is crucial to shine powerful headlamps on these misdeeds that have derailed human rights and democracy in Pakistan. The recent US Congressional hearing is a huge step forward. The contents of the briefing are well known as they make their rounds on social media. However there is a need to highlight efforts that went into making it a reality. US Congress does not take up matters out of thin air. It requires relentless, persistent and dedicated efforts spread over months, if not years.
We must recognize the dedication of Pakistani Americans that led to this momentous event. I salute my University buddy Sajjad Burki and other members of this core group. It includes Atif Khan, Dr. Asif Mehmood, Dr. Jalil Khan and Dr. Muhammad Tariq. Certainly there are many others who contributed that I am not aware of; I offer congratulationsto everyone who walked a single step or gave any time to this honorable effort. It has shown light on this lethal virus of grievous injustice being meted out to Pakistani voters.The perpetuators of these criminal activities are squirming using false media narratives spun by their subservientmedia.
US Congressional hearings resonate around the world. This legislative arm of US Government controls law making and policies of USA. To get a hearing on this forum requires a Herculean task of lobbying/convincing enough Congress members to create a critical mass. This brave and dedicated group of Pakistani Americans worked for over a year to muster this support. Eventually they were able to convince 31 Congress members to sign up. It’s a huge achievement to have nearly 15% of Congress to agree. It is unprecedented both for Pakistani Government or private individuals to gather such collective endorsement. Hats off to the dedication of this patriotic group.
IK has once again emerged as a game changer. Pakistan is no longer a collection of 250 million individuals, it is nowa nation welded together by belief and shared goals. Majority of Pakistani voters spoke through their vote on February 8th. Their verdict was stolen. There is resistance and protests within the country. Getting attention of the most powerful body in the world through Pakistani Americans was inspired by IK’s vision of Pakistan.
There are very important takeaways from this nearly one and half hour proceedings. 1. Donald Lu is a liar and denier. He was called out by the audience. However he admitted to meeting with Pakistani Ambassador. Minutes of this meeting formed the basis of the Cipher sent to Foreign Office. 2. He acknowledged there was election fraud requiring credible investigation. 3. Participants agreed that the entire election process was flawed; PTI was denied freedom of assembly, freedom of speech and basic rights. 4. Media suppression and internet failure were a blatant interference with free choice. 5. Vote count was interrupted and compilation of election results wasflawed. 6. Lu suggested constituency-wise inquiry;doubtful results should lead to re-elections. 7. Failure to rectify these wrongs would be an impediment in US-Pak relations.
Tenor of proceedings displayed a master servant relation. Iran gas pipeline will not be permitted. Relations with China have to be toned down. There is no love lost between Afghans and US. Pakistan has to work with US for a joint strategy for Afghanistan.
Congressmen Greg Casar, Pfluger and others members gave powerful speeches condemning unfair elections, rampant arrests, military trials, and Trans-National suppression. US Ambassador was advised to meet IK in jail like his meetings with other politicians. PTI’s is a reality that cannot be ignored.
There may be no immediate results; however there is an important underlying message. Since the fifties Americans always preferred to deal with Army Generals through whom they can control the people. When that capability ends they drop these dictators like a hot brick. Take the case of Shah of Iran, Marcos of Philippines, Pinochet of Chile, Suharto of Indonesia and many more. General Asim Munir must learn from history. IK rules the hearts and minds of Pakistanis; your brute force and Maryam/ Shahbaz dramatics will fail you. Acknowledge the power of the ballots and undo the wrongs.
