End Of An Era - Initial Reactions

As someone that has spent their teen years watching a Pakistan under Musharraf, this is the only era of Pakistan that I know from experience. All else that I know of my country comes from either a reading of history or speaking with those older than me.

While today appears to reflect in some manner the series of events that led to a similar resignation of Ayub Khan almost 40 years ago, for me this experience was very new, and it leaves me with many thoughts, emotions and concerns.

This post is no attempt to sum up the last 9 years, to analyze his successes or failures - political, economic or social, or a glorification of the Musharraf era or otherwise. It is a mere exercise in thinking aloud and reflecting on recent history and the future of this country.

Musharraf resigning - with English translation

Sitting at the student lounge at LUMS, I saw the small crowd erupt in an applause the moment the words (I translate), ".. in light of this, I am resigning from my post", were spoken by the now former President Musharraf.

Almost 9 years ago, I had rejoiced in a similar manner seeing him oust Nawaz Sharif in a military-led coup. For years after that, I was a vehement supporter of the man and his policies, calling him a benevolent leader. I did buy into his charisma and the straightforward manner of his expression. I did appreciate the skill and confidence with which he carried the flag of the country internationally. I liked the easing relationship with India and I appreciated the moderate views he brought with him to office. My single bone to pick with him (big bone, that!) was the fact that he was an unelected military person, and for that, I opposed him in principle, while I did speak about voting for him, should he contest a direct national election.

However, over the past year, I was the same person who had to switch sides due to Musharraf's actions on the judiciary and the state of emergency. I marched along the civil society, chanting 'Time to Go, Musharraf!', and I wore a black armband to register my silent protest, wherever I went and I protested the loss of civil liberties that are at the foundation of the social development of any nation.

The country is bigger than one man, be it ANY man.

So what does the future hold?

He's probably going to remain in Pakistan. I don't see Musharraf being prosecuted as he has probably bargained his immunity in return for a resigning and preventing a lengthy and intense impeachment process. But it is now that the political focus will shift to the differences between the coalition parties PPP and PML-N. There will be massive horse-trading for the decision of who will succeed Musharraf and there is bound to be friction on other issues such as the restoration of the judiciary, the state of the economy, the War on Terror and so on..

In any case, I am terribly concerned to the point of fear for the upheaval that lies ahead. I dread a Pakistan ruled by Zardari. Just like every other Pakistani, I truly do. But that may in fact be the price we have to pay to move ahead in the hope for democracy and the institutional development that is bound to come after this period of strife. Let me reiterate: It is GOOD to see the end of an era led by an unelected man. It is GOOD to see the remnants of military rule disappear for now. Musharraf, for all his true intentions, was the embodiment of both. It is GOOD to see hope return.

Coming back into my classy little financial sector office, I reflect on the events of today while staring blankly at the stock market's graph for today. I guess popular sentiment wins the day.

The Karachi Stock Exchange - 100 Index for today

There IS this one thing, though. I do hope to one day sit with Mr Musharraf and really talk about what was it that drove him through his term and what specifically was the thought process behind the events that took place in his last year. I hope to someday understand.

Theory Time

Chain of events that might be possible in the next few weeks:

1. Musharraf's impeachment begins
2. Musharraf restores judges, NRO potentially gets thrown out
3. Impeachment fails
4. Musharraf used the constitutional clause to dissolve parliament (saying I gave them a chance but they ruined the country)
5. Musharraf resigns taking a moral high ground making (4) look selfless
6. Caretaker government formed. Military plays a role in constituting it.
7. Caretaker government files a petition with the Supreme Court to not have re-elections in 90 days since the political atmosphere does not allow for elections.
8. Caretaker government spends 1-3 years in office, being run behind the curtains by the military.
9. Stability returns
10. Possible chance of assassination attempts on Nawaz/Shahbaz or Nawaz getting back in power as he has a clear victory in this chapter

Word has it that Benazir's son, Bilawal, who is co-Chairman of the PPP has refused to sign a power of attorney to Zardari saying, 'Mama said no!'. Her daughter recently tried to commit suicide and the kids are all against him. Breakup of the PPP is a potential outcome.

Of course certain things such as the Taleban situation, relations with India, etc. still remain in the open..

This I-day, I pray for my country..!

Round 1 - FIGHT!

The politics in Pakistan are about to take a real interesting turn. The PPP and PML-N, leading parties of the coalition have reached a consensus on impeaching Musharraf. Reports just coming in that Musharraf, in an act of self-defense, has signed the order for restoration of the judges of the Sindh High Court.

Now, the controvesial National Reconciliation Ordinance (NRO), that protects Zardari, Kingpin from the PPP, is under direct threat due to judges being back. Musharraf is making a point saying, you mess with me, I KEEEEL you!

"God makes dinosaur. God kills dinosaur. God make man. Man makes dinosaur. Dinosaur kills man." (Jurassic Park)

What be happen now!

World Peace Starts At Home

Over the last couple of days, a lot of things have spun out of proportion in Pakistani foreign relations. The latest episode is where the heat is on the ISI for playing a malicious role. It's really all a big mess. I am pretty pro intelligence reform but the nature of these organizations whether they are called ISI, CIA, Mossad, RAW, KGB and so on will always remain rather shady.

There's a lot of negative news coming out of Pakistan and I felt a great sense of grief while writing this article for Voices. I certainly hope more than anything else, I am able to one day write about success and prosperity, the way I have had to write about despair and failure.

In 12 days, this country turns 61 yrs old. Perhaps, now.. A little less conversation, a little more action required for Pakistan. There is light at the end of the tunnel.

Center of the World

I figured I would just say it before you did! On a Friday evening, when you're publishing 3 posts at the same time, surely something IS outta control! haha!

Anyway, I felt the need to jot down a few thoughts on some recent stuff that I have been following in the political arena -

• The Democratic Party's Nomination for the American Presidency Saga
• The nonsensical political carom game in Pakistan where citizens are getting thrashed by political players with an ultimate aim of cornering them to succumb

I'll save discussion on the latter for another day, but the series of events following Obama's nomination have been quite thought provoking. Yes, the man can talk - for that alone, I'm a big fan. It isn't always easy to cut past the rhetoric and to decipher the content of his speeches in an accurate manner. Those that were watching are likely to agree that his presumptive nomination speech was remarkably moving indeed.

The very next morning, he gave a speech to AIPAC - the American Israel Public Affairs Committee. The timing was impeccable and his conduct predictable. Many people in this part of the world were angered by his approach to the Middle East crisis, especially in relation to a continued commitment to supply arms to Israel, to do 'everything' possible.. 'everything!' to purge the threat from Iran, and for calling Jerusalem the capital of Israel.

On closer inspection, though, certain key elements in the content of his speech become evident. While clearly he was giving in to the 'Special Interests' he so vehemently stood against throughout his campaign (yes, Mr Barack Hussein Obama, that was always gonna be a toughie!), he didn't quite say things that were essentially highlighted by the media as well as by anti-Israel/pro-Palestine people. If anything, the central message of his speech, to me, was focus on the fact that 'pro-Palestine' is not synonymous to 'anti-Israel'. We need to realize how deeply entrenched the roots of American Jews are in defining American foreign policy and anyone that expected him to have turned away from them is quite the fool.

Regardless, his central message was that of peaceful resolution through diplomacy, a separate state for Palestine and Israel, and an undivided Jerusalem.. There were certainly plenty of snippets that fired up the crowd, but filtering those away, relative to all other candidates in this race, he probably has the most mature stance on this issue.

It is this maturity and depth of thought as well as boldness to say it and sharpness to say it as well, that I respect about him. He's there to win an election, and he is doing what he needs to, while still preserving the values that he stands for. Unfortunately, or perhaps fortunately for his campaign, the media and analysts will hail this as a pro-Zionism stance, but hey!

In the end, I reckon he will not even be as active a player of foreign policy as some might think - at least in his first time (assuming he gets elected and then stands for reelection), I see him pursuing a more isolationist policy as regards world affairs. I'm no guru, but I do hope that when he speaks of healing that nation and repairing this world, he has the resolve to stand by his belief!

Abyss and The Swamp

Two rather disturbing events being covered by the media really have me bugged.

Firstly, if any of you have been following up on recent India-Pakistan relations, you might know that things have been improving somewhat. In fact a bit over a week ago, an alleged spy who had been held captive for 30+ years in Pakistan on a death penalty was pardoned by Musharraf. Amidst a frenzy of media coverage in both countries, Kashmir Singh walked across the border celebrating and relieved, his family not believing their good fortunes. He then gave an interview talking about his service to the country and that he was, for all intents and purposes, in fact a spy.

The news that has been in the headlines today all over the country talks of a Pakistani prisoner coming back from India. Except the mood was slightly different owing to the fact that instead of walking across on his feet, he was in a casket. His family was mourning and crying and rest assured the cameras were there to cover every bit of it. Apparently, he died due to extensive torture inflicted on him in an Indian prison. According to his family, he had gone to watch a cricket match between India and Pakistan on a cricket visa as part of the peace-building measures between the embassies (The Irony!). He had lost his passport there and was arrested and detained and that was the last of him.

Now the man could have been a spy, who knows. I'm sure that once in a while there are similar stories that spark ill feeling for Pakistan on the other side, but this sort of thing really doesn't help. Exactly a decade ago, we were at each others throats and testing nukes to show our fighting ability. Since then, it has been 10 years of diplomacy, exchange of people, culture, arts and sports and increasing trade. Now, such incidents things do not help!

My closest school friend is an Indian. I've been to the country myself several times. I worked for an organization that was started as a result of an Indian peace initiative. I consider myself fairly well educated about issues around the two countries as well as a big fan of the people there. Yet, I know that most people are not that way.. Most have never met an Indian and their only interaction comes from a history of bitterness, and Bollywood! It kills me to see my grandmother, who was a migrant from Amritsar, talk about how nothing ever changes and how 'they' hate 'us'. None of this helps. (Adding to the irony, this news came in the same bulletin that was covering an AIESEC Pak conference!)

Anyway, the other piece of news is more 'local' in nature. So, we're still not sure who's going to be Prime Minister of Pakistan.. But most recent developments are not looking too great. A very respected leader of PPP, Amin Faheem, had been seen as the best candidate. The man has a clean and credible political record, he'd managed and held the party together while Benazir was in self-exile for the largest part of the last two decades. He was her right hand man and was even with her as she was taking her dying breaths.

Unfortunately, he is being undermined by Zardari (current co-chairman of PPP and Benny's husband, aka 'Mr 10 Percent' due to his massive corruption in the Benazir Era) since election results came out. Now it's looking like Zardari himself might be gearing up for top spot or at the very least finding a subservient PM that can let Zardari be the kingpin. To the surprise of none, his corruption cases have been withdrawn since his party won! Our resident moron, Mr Nawaz Sharif is also dreaming big imagining that Zardari as PM would result in goodbye Mushoo and he could be made President. Fool!

It's quite sad if things turn continue to tread this path. To be honest, I'm pretty sure PPP wouldn't have gotten even half the votes it did if people knew that Zardari was going to potentially be PM. Mannn, this sucks!

I just wish things would start moving in the positive direction and that idiot that hit my stationary car from behind and fled from the scene while I watched helplessly will one day become a better person!

The Plot Thickens... Or Unfolds?

As the latest poll results come in and a large majority of seats are finalized, it has become quite clear that the opposition forces of PML-N and PPP have swept into a massive lead. The pro-Musharraf ranks are either disappearing from the public scene or loudly proclaiming how Musharraf's delivered on his promise for free and fair elections. I'll hold the analysis back for a little bit as I summarize some key results -

Nationally, PPP leads but not with enough majority to go by without forming a coalition. Provincially, the case is ditto for PML-N. PPP is going to form government in Sindh, ANP in NWFP and PML-Q in Balochistan (which will play a factor when electing the Senate), the way it looks now. In all provinces, PPP has the leading or the second position. There has been a large amount of winners that are independent and non-partisan. They are likely to play a large factor in coalition creation. Most women that were standing for National Assembly seats have also won. Is that going to be a factor?

Over the next few weeks, the future of the country will lie in a balance as will President Musharraf's. Behind closed doors, there will be making and breaking of many coalitions and this process is unlikely to help the stability of the country. The final outcome of talks between PPP and PML-N will of course be a driving factor to what happens next. In the leadup to the elections, the two parties have supported each other and have adjusted their candidates so as to beat the incumbent government comprehensively and not divide each other's vote bank. Will this, however, lead to a coalition between parties that still hold historic grudges? Perhaps the fact that Benazir and Nawaz Sharif are not directly running for the big position of PM would help soften the hardline position that they usually take against each other.

However, these parties do differ on certain very important issues: restoration of the Judiciary and the Chief Justice, the restoration of the constitution October 1998, and their position on working with Musharraf. So far, PML-N has been pro-restoration of judiciary and pro-removal of Musharraf. PPP has not taken any positions on the issue of judiciary and have hinted and their willingness to work with Musharraf as president. Perhaps PPP will align with some pro-Mush forces to get an edge enough to form government. Lots of question marks..

In my opinion stability and any positive change will only come through agreement of the two parties. Should this happen, Musharraf could be packing his bags. But an equally likely scenario is a parliament that with the big parties fighting with each other and making any functioning government a distant reality. Of course, Musharraf can sit back and enjoy should that happen.

Furthermore, it will be interesting how Mr President reacts to this state of affairs. Some hint at his resigning as a proactive approach gaining an element of popularity for staying true to his word and respecting the vote of the people of Pakistan. So far, he's been continuously talking about his willingness to work with whoever forms government. Will he still be able to hand over the power he's exercised for the largest part of the last decade in this manner?

Everyone including observers from 13 countries have been awed by the relatively peaceful environment this has all occurred in. Has it been heightened security or the willingness of extremists to see the incumbents go, that has resulted in this? What will become of these radical forces? Are people shunning them away or are they waiting it out for round 2? Do they think that the government will ease on The War if Musharraf's gone or have they too conceded defeat? In any case, he's a lame duck unless the big parties decide to fight it out against each other, and he would just sit back and use the infamous 58/2b article in the constitution allowing him to dissolve parliament. Ironically, if they cooperate, they can get rid of this article itself.

What about the issue of rigging? While irregularities in voting (Check out Teeth Maestro and the SAC site) have been seen across the country, no major incidents of mass rigging are apparent. Has it been the media, the civil society and the international observers that have prevented the establishment from foul play? Could it be that the new COAS is making a clear statement of staying out of politics and ensuring his intelligence agencies do the same for now? Have the US and other international players given up on Musharraf as his popularity and effectiveness wains or is there more to it than the eye can see?

The reality is that this election is being won through the sympathy vote and the anti-govt vote. That being the case, the positive election is that no differing manifestos will act as a major obstacle to cooperation, but it does leave the future stance and agenda of the formed government out to anyone's interpretation.

As a friend of mine put it, 'The cycle [PML-Q] gets hit by the proverbial suicide bomber of Paki democracy'! Let's just hope it's not really a 'suicide' bomber but a remotely detonating mine!

The Tables Turn

Major upsets are being faced by the ruling party. The chairman of the Q-league, Ch Shujaat Hussain has lost in his hometown and so has a leading minister Sh Rasheed. It's looking like the entire cabinet isn't even getting their own seats! Speaks volumes for people's reaction to their performance.

PPP is now leading nationally overall, with PML-N trailing closely. The liberal moderates ANP is winning in the Northern Province, which is a ray of hope against extremism. Still lots of results to go, but a trend is forming. So far, PML-Q (ruling party) has only 1 secured National Assembly seat.

Feeling optimistic about the way things are shaping up and thankful to a largely peaceful day. Special mention goes out to the media for leading an awareness campaign and policing the elections so far.

Preliminary Results

According to unofficial reports pouring in, the incumbent, pro-Mush party PML-Q is losing across the board. Currently, PPP is looking to be leading across the country and PML-N is going strong in Punjab.

While there have been numerous reports of irregularities around polling, many people are saying that there will be just enough rigging to prevent a 2/3 majority. Many are also saying that should this trend be true, it is in some ways a referendum for Mr President and he would have to pack his bags soon. Too early to state with any certainty what is going to happen, and what the overall voters turnout was like.

Fingers crossed.

Cheated. Robbed. Rigged!

As I write this, I struggle to keep control as a barrage of emotions gush through me. I feel wrong, cheated, frustrated, and very very angry. This is what the feelings of many of us today are. Many who have been grossly denied their right to a political identity. Our right to be a citizen of Pakistan. A right to voice our opinion. To be empowered. To own a part of this vast country. It's all stolen.

Like many of my fellowmen, I cared enough to break through the barriers of apathy and risk physical harm by going out to vote today. Over the last few days, there was a lot of confusion about the registration of my vote as I was a first-time voter, too young to have voted in the last national elections. It's not everyday that one gets to practice democracy in this country, so filled with excitement and a form of pride, my dad and I headed to the polling station. On the way there I was pleasantly surprised with the number of people that had braved it. Perhaps it was the sentiment to vote out the establishment. Whatever it was, I continued to accumulate positive energy while reiterating to myself the reasons why I was going to vote the way I was for the National and the Provincial Legislature. I impatiently waited to carry the inkmark on my thumb as a medal proclaiming: I Voted. I challenged Inactivity. I voted.

I did not.

Upon getting to the polling station, there's a number of different 'stalls' outside of different political parties. They have the lists from the National Database of all those that have a vote. Pakistan is one of the very few countries in the world that actually have a national identity card scheme where anyone that is over the age of 18 has a computerized ID card. Everyone. The list was merely a list of everyone in the constituency that had an ID card, their names, ages, and addresses. We walked up to the first desk and sitting in a relatively advanced setting at the PML-N office, we got to check our name out at the computerized kiosk. It wasn't there. Now, my dad's always voted at elections so he was extremely surprised at this. We were told that it was evidence of rigging but being distrustful of our technical expertise, we headed to the PML-Q booth that had a printed list. Nothing. According to this genius, no one from our address existed in the database. We then headed to my grandma's which is my registered address. She'd voted. Hmm. So that guy was certainly wrong. We left again to check up a PPP booth - the last resort. Having gotten there we decided to go through the lists ourselves and were shocked to see that only two names of the 14 people in that house with IDs were in the list! We wanted to fight with someone, just simply didn't know who. We were left stranded without a lifeline. We were not happy. Many people standing there were as furious since the case of the 'missing' IDs was a rather common one, it appeared. Where were these missing numbers? They had to be counted somewhere. In favor of someone... Where? Who? I looked to my right to see a woman screaming and fuming off saying 'To hell with this election. To hell with Musharraf. I don't have a vote. Why don't I have a vote?'

According to the workers, house is registered (circled below) but I'm not, although the address is clearly stated on my fancy ID Card (above) complete with visual recognition bars

Many have voted though. I hope it leads to something constructive, but I grow skeptical.

These elections were hailed as being centralized and automated. The website of the election commission fails to recognize me as a citizen of Pakistan

I came back home and switched on TV to watch Fatima Bhutto (Benazir's niece) giving an interview with a voters list in her hand. To my shock, that list had names, but no ID numbers. Which essentially meant that there was no way of verifying anyone's identity. Furthermore, her mom was fighting over a mismatched ID-name issue.

Lists, Lists everywhere.. But no vote..

Last night Musharraf made a statement that his favoring PML-Q was going to win. Even before the 'free, fair and transparent' elections! Later the presidency denied having made any such official statement.

At this point, I feel a strong association to Imran Khan that decided to stay out of the sham election. More than shame for this statement of national affairs, I feel lost. A friend of mine asked me why I was even surprised. I don't know why. Perhaps I still had some faith. All I have now is disgust. More than ever before I feel a strong inclination to change things. To fundamentally transform the foundations of the system. To right the wrongs of the future.

The Campaign Trail

Despite the forecast by many to the contrary, the infamous elections are finally here. Over the last couple of days, I must be honest I've been rather distracted on the road by all the different banners and posters with electoral symbols flashing in my face. Cutting through the tigers and the arrows and the bicycles and the kites and of course the odd hukka (village sheesha), I made the grave mistake of trying to locate some form of manifesto.. anything that would entice me to vote for a certain individual or a party. It appears, though, that none of that really matters and the candidates are of the firm belief that their faces are reason enough for them to be voted in.

Competition is stiff. Even for poles to stick your banners! Many have multiple party banners.

You have to pay no one if you're using your vehicle as advertising space!

With the onslaught of violence, both actual and perceived, political rallies have been non-existent. Given the lack of content available in political speeches I don't think we missed much. All opposition politicians are continuing to ensorcell their followers with one common message - Anti-establishment. Unfortunately, this has been the only message that has forever characterized the politics of Pakistan. That, and lack of memory of the constituents. Combined, these two factors have resulted in a very simple pattern in Parliament: No party gets re-elected for a second term, and the same people will come back to form government with a gap of one term.

'We spread love before, We'll Spread Love Still' - Reason enough for a vote?

I've been going around trying to also figure out how people are voting. While there are a number of people that are showing the positive traits of saying that they'll vote on basis of the candidate's performance and character, rather than his party (unless he's from the incumbent Q-league - Biker Boys - refer to reason above), most individuals are trying to find the party that is relatively the least worse. It's really a race to the bottom in that sense.

Major players worth a mention:

PPP: Largest party in the country. Has the sympathy vote. Negative element is the leadership of Zardari, who is hated widely and across the board. Is benefited by the division of Punjabi Vote between the two PMLs and the lessening popularity of religious parties in the NWFP. No outlook on who is going to be their Prime Minister candidate (a position that drives a lot of emotion in Pakistan's voter). Chance of an internal rift in the party post elections. Not likely to have enough majority to form government on its own. Trying to join hands with PML-N. Not hardline anti-Musharraf.

Election's striking a note for all ages. This kid did freak out after I took his pic and removed the poster!

PML-N: Trying to capitalize on it's anti-Musharraf stand. Has the moral high with promoting the judiciary. But most people feel that's a false promise and that they don't really want to form government for two main reasons: 1. If they really were in line for govt, they wouldn't be rooting for a free judiciary that would hamper their functioning. 2. Both the Sharif brothers have been barred from running for Parliament. There is no third person in the party that they will trust with the PM position. Taking fire on their coalition attempts with the PPP as they would be losing their political identity. Has the traditional Punjab vote which is instrumental in any bid for the govt (as it's the largest province in population).

PML-Q: Incumbent government and despised by many. Has had some good initiatives to back them but on the whole has a negative rating. It's leadership is seen as malicious and subservient to Musharraf. A text message I got today sums up the feeling of many rather aptly: 'PML(Q) has changed its symbol from 'cycle' to 'condom', because it reflects its political stance. A condom allows inflation, halts production, destroys the next generation, protects pricks & gives you a sense of security while you're actually being screwed!' I find that quite hilarious actually! Anyway, despite that they have some strongholds in Punjab as well as a grip on the intelligencia, who would be instrumental in any form of rigging that may occur. They do have lots of (taxpayer) money at their disposal for the campaigning.

Giant 'Cycles' all over Lahore. Who's paying, you ask?

Other parties - ANP, MQM, ...: They rely on a traditional vote as well as some performance based vote. They will come into play during the formation of any coalition government.

Empowerment for All, he says. 'All' don't even know what the word means! He's been in Exile since 1992.

Some parties such as the JUI (Religious party) and the PTI (Imran Khan's party) have opted to boycott the elections, but are now being widely criticized as would have been the case unless other major parties had boycotted too. They feel that upon allegations of rigging coming true, many losing parties will join them in the fight against the state.

A couple of important trends to note:

1. Musharraf's approval rating has suffered recently. This could make it more difficult to get away with rigging for any pro-establishment party.
2. Osama bin Ladin's approval rating (yes, there is one!) has also diminished drastically in the last year as many of those empathetic to 'the cause' have been sickened by the violence seemingly emitting from the extremist gang. While people remain confused on a stance on The War, they're getting inclined to vote away from the religious rightist elements.
3. Anti-Americanism, while prevalent in the society, is not overtly visible in the speeches by the leadership of any party. They've somehow made peace with that influence on Pakistan.
4. Active military personnel have virtually been pulled out of all civilian institutions by the new COAS. This is either a move to build confidence about the Army's return to the barracks or an attempt to renew an oath to the New General, should drastic measures need to be taken in the near future.
5. A strong media, and Civil Society Organizations such as the Students Action Committee as well as international observers (not all independent!) are going to be keeping close watch at these polls and it should be interesting if that affects the dynamics and the outcomes.
   

Most political analysts (which is practically the majority of the voting and non-voting populace of the country!) see a hung parliament coming into place that will be ineffective leaving big man Mush on top without a threat and there will be a call for premature re-elections. The big question mark is how much violence will accompany and follow these elections as the positions of all major players will be shaped by that.

On a more personal note, despite the obvious feeling of uncertainty and terror, I find myself a little bit excited about these elections. If done right, this could be the first step towards building the foundation of something extraordinary. Conversely, this could also be the last blow to a wall separating us from complete anarchy and an impending revolution.

A Tree Falls In A Forest and No One Is Around To Hear It..

Apologies for being a bit of a faineant as regards some recent events. To be honest, part of the reason for the delay can be blamed upon the fact that I was trying to find some manner of adding a form of feeling or emotion to the event, and not just make a newsreel style post. Unfortunately, that process was in vain and having interacted with many Pakistanis over the issue, it appears that I'm just an ordinary citizen in my stance towards this - or the lack thereof.

The blast in Lahore, the first of its kind to tarnish the cultural capital of the country occurred on the Mall Road, a boulevard of government buildings that stand witness to colonial legacy. It's all quite symbolic really. The Empire's main function was revenue extraction and undemocratic rule. 60 years down, while the people in these buildings have a darker skin, their actions remain as malicious.

The blast occurred in the middle of a large platoon of policemen that were awaiting the lawyers' weekly march down the road. Most likely motive: A subliminal warning to the lawyers to desist from continuing their protests. Most low-cost target: Bunch of cops. Now why is it that I find myself surrounded by a lack of sympathy towards those targetted? As friend of mine says, 'The answer's quite simple: While the vast majority of them were mere pawns in the dirty war, its one in which the protagonists are often indistinguishable. '

Police is the most direct physical form of state repression in this country. It's also the easiest one to target. Their own attitude hasn't helped much. Today, most of us see the police, not as guardians of our safety, but those on 'the other side'. Much like their counterparts in the military - the 'defenders of the country'.

Protesters attach placards and stickers against the establishment on a police vehicle.

The funny rebuttal that the state is using nowadays is a lame attempt to hide their incompetency as regards security lapses: 'It was a suicide bomber. You know.. We can't do much about such things..'. (Initial reports from site were that the bomb had been planted under a police van!) Most of us have seized to have even an iota of confidence in what the government tells us now.

And what's with those reports about 'X number of suicide bombers have entered city X'. Umm.. Hello? Who's giving you this info? Why didn't you catch them when you'd been tracking their entrance into the city! And what does 'the security forces in the country have been put on high alert after the blast' even mean? Were they on low alert since things have been all so peaceful lately? Surely they mustn't be too motivated after the way they're being targeted. Alert, probably not! Afraid, I would suppose so!

It appears that mass movement on the street is not in the making. Perhaps prompt elections are the only (albeit suboptimal) way forward. Our choice pool constitutes a college freshman, his corrupt father that's made it to the top-5 richest people in the country at our expense, an indecisive moron with a history of U-turns, and a criminal that thinks the province is his personal property.. and his son famous only for the fights over gals that he settled outside his college using daddy's guards! But it's still our choice to make, eh!

This too shall pass.

Situation at Midnight

Train and Air travel domestically been suspended or delayed. Public transport is at a standstill.

Benazir's body is being transported to Chaklala Air Base to be flown to her ancestral home in Larkhana. Scores of people mourn outside the hospital.

Elections are most likely going to be delayed since PML of Nawaz Sharif has also announced a boycott since the situation is not conducive to any form of campaigning.

Bush and other major heads of states send their messages and Condoleeza calls PPP leadership.

Streets are empty except for the few people that are taking their grievances out on public property.

Musharraf's Reaction

Musharraf announces three (3) days of official mourning. Educational institutions would also remain closed and the national flag will fly at half mast for this period. Calls on the people to support him in eradicating the terrorists that have committed this heinous act. Also appeals for the public to remain calm and exercise patience and restrain.

Major Cities in Turmoil

All AIESECers - members and interns - are safe and indoors.

Latest reports:

• Lahore: People on the streets tearing down the posters of the ruling party (PML-Q) which are all over the streets
• Karachi: Violence erupting and traffic jams on major roads as people are trying to make their way back home
• Hyderabad: Supporters break cars and burn tires. State of curfew
• Rawalpindi and Islamabad: High security all around. Cell phone networks down.

Top level government meeting happening to assess the situation.

Benazir's kids and husband en route to the country.

More Updates

Violence is breaking out in major cities over the country. People are angry, upset and confused. Advice everyone to remain indoors.

Government's control is clearly waining. Elections will probably be postponed, but the political situation is spiraling out of control.

Blast in Islamabad

In what looks like a suicide attack immediately after the PPP rally in Islamabad, sources are saying that Benazir Bhutto has been killed.

15 - 25 people additionally lost their lives.

On Gratitude..

We accept it always, and in all places, most noble Felix, with all thankfulness.

- Acts 24.3

So, the much anticipated day has come at last. General Musharraf is now Mr Musharraf. Most people around are in a festive mood talking about how memorable a moment in time we're witnessing!

... But hold on a second, will ya?

What's really going on here? Well, besides the fact that a number of emotional mothers watched the handover ceremony today and turned to their sons with the hope that they would one day join the Army - the savior of the country. I must say I'm remarkably impressed with how forgiving this nation is! I mean, surely there's no higher level of tolerance that can be exhibited, beyond forgetting what has been happening in the country in recent time.

But alas, I know this feeling: It's identical to when you're walking down a dark alley, and someone pounces at you out of nowhere and sticks a gun into your face, takes away all your possessions.. including your cell phone, wallet, even the clothes that keep you warm, and then he starts to run.. You watch him go.. without hope. And SPONTANEOUSLY, he turns around, and puts your SIM Card on the sill of a window nearby and disappears into the night. Man, wouldn't you TRULY be grateful to him at that point? You might even think, 'oh what a great moral guy..'! I know I would!

This situation certainly isn't too far from our robber, except he is/was a General and you were walking in broad daylight, in addition to your possessions he also took your rights and freedoms, yes there was a gun involved, and he probably bruised you and held you captive for a bit too, and then just when you'd lost all hope he turns around, and strips out of his Khakhi Uniform and streaks away! And no he doesn't disappear into the night..

In an emotional speech that followed the ceremony on his last guard of honor, Mr Musharraf commended the armed forces saying that they will always work towards the constant 'Tarraqi' (Development) of Pakistan. How noble! Except, last I checked the Armed forces were supposed to defend the country, not work towards its development..! But I'm further grateful now that I have been told better!

Following that, the stock market had another great day, as rumors surfaced about the 'state of Emergency' being removed soon. Hmm.. again, I was under the impression that this state of emergency had something to do with.. well.. how safe we were.. from.. terrorism? I mean sure it just happens to coincide with Mush's election eligibility issues (why even bother, really!) being resolved by baby courts, but really, I do feel safer! I felt it all the way on my jog back home from the gym! I also felt cold though. But I'm grateful for I know that Mr President surely has a cure for the weather too! I mean, especially with it being all so extreme and everything! All the other notorious extremists have been disciplined through the emergency after all.. lawyers, civil society, media, students.. just to name a few REALLY horrific ones.

Following is an excerpt from a recent chat:

B'dona: i mean at least it is like a good thriller

Paddie: oh yea! with the blood and gore, i'm lovin it! except this time around, we do know who the killer is already!

B'dona: yeah man. that is an important technique.. giving the audience the feeling of being omniscient. adds extra enjoyment and satisfaction.

In the mean while, Nawaz Sharif has come back.. Yet Again. Our loving, grateful, forgetful, forgiving nation now deems HIM the savior. 'Charisma' personified!

At this point, I'm going to use the aid of another analogy - Cricket! :) More specifically, Pakistani Cricket. Those that follow it, know that the only thing that one can predict about this team is the fact that its completely unpredictable. What's also argued is that corruption and match-fixing are residents in the ranking. But without fail, we forget and we forgive when Afridi walks onto the pitch.. and when we turn easy wins into memorable losses! The nation's connected to the team with their hearts and souls! Their hearts are broken and their spirits are dampened! So, rule number 1 to survival in this country is to not take cricket OR politics quite so seriously - for your own benefit! I guess we're learning quickly!

Couple of weeks to National Elections following a 'smooth transition' (giggles!). The military machinery will have complete control over their outcome, especially moreso if they happen in a state of emergency, without much campaigning and in the absence of a judiciary to even be a safety net to any wrongdoing. It's a widely accepted fate here by the majority of the population. The fact that the uniform is now shed isn't going to change any policies. While Imran Khan has publicly torn off the nomination papers, most other parties are likely to not do so.

The underlying agenda for me to continue to wear that black piece of cloth on my arm every day is simple: Restore the Judiciary. Free the people. End the Martial Law. And if possible, give us back our Constitution. No one's buying the crap about how in the interest of the nation the constitution sometimes has to be overlooked. Kinda defeats the very purpose of a constitution, wouldn't you say.

Musharraf isn't scary as President.. Neither is Benny or Sharfu as PM. Cos that too shall pass. What petrifies me is the idea of how this series of events has set a horrifying precedence from which the Judicial system, being a crucial building block for the culture of transparency, a precondition to a healthy democracy might never recover if we don't do something about it right now.

Regardless, Quite the Orchestra. Quite the Maestro.

Either You're With Us, or You're in Jail!

Having stooped low enough to hold the nukes hostage in this current situation, in talks with the U.S. over the weekend, El Generale has departed to Saudi Arabia at such a crucial time. An interesting speculation that's come through is that he might be trying to link up with Nawaz Sharif there. Although, I'm skeptical to that happening, I doubt either of them is morally above something of the sort, even with their eventful history!

In the mean time, there is an estimated 25,000 people in prisons around the country including students, lawyers, politicians and civil society workers. 'Free' and 'Fair' Elections ahead, people!

On the students movement front, several LUMS students did a flash protest in Lahore today. College is on a quarter break so activities such as these will probably mark the developments of the next few weeks. In some unfortunate news though, students of Bahria University (a Navy owned university in Islamabad) have been threatened with expulsion, cancellation of degrees, and even legal action, should they participate in any protests on or OFF campus, in any manner (including wearing black armbands!). Desperate times call for desperate measures, eh Mush?

Speaking of him, Musharraf's Supreme Court, today has dismissed 5 of the 6 petitions against his Presidency. Surprise! Surprise!

"No one can support a dictatorship, without being a direct beneficiary of it..." - Minto

Some further impressions..

With the official shutting down of uplinks of GEO TV and ARY (airing from Dubai), the government has finally stabbed the heart of free speech with a poisonous dagger. I wish my other home country had more of a conscience in this matter.. Where will this lead?

Word also has it that given the increasing number of women on the streets, the police force is finding itself at shortage of female police personnel to handle them! It appears that there will soon be ads (clearly not on GEO, though) for large amounts of vacancies for that professions.

In this video below, the commentary is in Urdu, but you can see the police is manhandling a number of people. In the second half, you can see Imran Khan's sisters reportedly being pushed around by cops. What eh!



I find that I am close to seeing an entire segment of society (including myself) see the situation now crossing a certain threshold of patience on numerous counts. It might be time to do something more.. But what?

Pleasantly surprised by a decent number of events taking place at the FAST University in Lahore on their blog. I was particularly amused by a recent 'funeral ceremony of the Constitution'. Creative stuff.

U.S. Deputy Secretary of State, Negroponte (Reminds of a Necromancer!), was in town too, and it was funny how U.S. intervention is seen is a commonly acceptable everyday thing around here! Newspapers talked about him doing his official duties including calls to Benny! Sigh..

At this very instance, I really do want to be on the streets, but I truly truly wish it wasn't due to the sad state of the governing bodies of my own country, but for something like Climate Change Awareness - a threat to our very survival as a species. (recent report by IPCC)

I find it quite appropriate to reflect on a dear friend's vision for life at this point:

"I wish to sow the seeds for a tree, under whose shadow I may not even live long enough to sit"

That's sustainability for you. To a better tomorrow..

The Tide's Turning, but for Whom?

It was heartening to hear that a large group of students (estimates vary between 4000 and 8000 in number) rallied at the Punjab University today telling the IJT (the group that manhandled Imran Khan) to get the f*** off their campus! I guess some nobility remains yet on those premises.

In more grim news though, 2 young boys in Karachi have been killed becoming the first to die since the de facto martial law was imposed. Also, while a Hunger Strike continues for the 4th straight day during exams at the uni, reports are coming in that some 6-8 students of LUMS have been arrested but confirmation still not received.

Despite calls to the contrary, Musharraf has just selected his 'interim government' (kinda kills the idea of an interim govt that supposed to be the independent body that acts as caretaker govt and responsible for seeing free and fair elections!) . To no surprise all the people there are close allies of his.

A real funny clip came across today of an interview of Mush with MSNBC. Quoting General Sahib (with reference to Benny): "You guys in the Western media are so easily impressed with a woman in politics! If it's a woman, oooh Very good.. If she speaks English, very Good!.. oh and if she's good looking too, EVEN better!".

HAHAH! I mean sure you have the hots for her but honestly, it must be the last living brain cell in this guy's head that sees an interview with an international correspondent as a way of passing on his affection!

An article in the NYT has issued an interesting (and encouraging) insight. It says that 'they (the U.S. Govt) don't want to encourage another military coup, but they are also beginning to understand that Musharraf has become part of the problem'! Yay to that! Surely if any of this is true, Mushy's days are numbered.

A Glimmer of Hope Appears.

On a slightly more personal note, though, I'm having a lot of difficulty with my 'Apathy' dealing capabilities i.e. how is it that one is supposed to interact with those that are not just passive in their apathy, but rather proactive about it? I am beginning to find the strategy of Ignorance is Bliss rather limiting and found myself very close to lashing out at a guy selling stationery today, as he spoke about how anyone that tries to be 'a hero' (while discussing Imran Khan) surely deserves a good beating! My friend, when the Taleban come and give you a good beating, I too, shall smile! :) [See my problem?]

Still Remember, the 3rd of November?

I got a number of off-the-blog comments about the title of my last post. Since it was a ripoff from V for Vendetta, the events of the last few days further my strength in conviction about the similarities of the movie with what we're living: A terror state, general apathy all around, access only to puppet media, a 'supreme' commander/dictator, November, and so on.. What's missing is a 'V' that would dare to challenge status quo, a 'V' that would send a white mask to every home. Perhaps, though, it isn't an individual that will actually play 'V' but a collective. However, there are a lot of mixed feelings coming out of the last few days that I haven't gotten a chance to hit blogger.

There were two extremely shameful events that took place recently. First a bunch of school kids - aged between 14 and 18 were arrested in Islamabad for .. well, nothing! I've attached the video below made by one of them. As you can see in the happenings of the second half, the students were simply taken away by riot police when they refused to confront them and obey their instructions! Let me tell you something about Islamabad - kids here are known to be the educated, self absorbed, never stepped too far from home kind - so I guess thats reason enough for the 'security' officials consider them a threat to public safety and put these heinous creatures behind bars! Well, surely this event will change the outlook these kids have of the world we live in! Splendid.


The second event is the one that I woke up to today as a dear friend of mine called me up and informed me about how a bunch of students belonging to the religious student wing (known for their 'bad activism' and terror games over the years) had held Imran Khan captive at a seminar he was supposed to address at Punjab University today - the largest uni in Pak. Not only was it shameful knowing that a bunch of hooligans, that had clearly been paid off, had forcefully restrained him and were handing him over to the authorities, they also decided to beat him to pulp while doing so! Wtf, mate!

Anyway, I'm going to keep this post short since there's a number of things on my plate, students elsewhere in the country have been continuing to show their symbolic disapproval through a program of sending flowers to the suspended judges, and more recently through Candle Light Vigils like the one below at LUMS.



In other news, Benny invited a bunch of students to her place to gain their support, but they had to clarify their stance as non-affiliated to political parties, working only for the restoration for our rights to justice, and invited her instead to come over to LUMS to share her thoughts with the students. Let's see if she makes it. I'm obviously still pretty cynical about her continued temporary 'house arrests' in different cities. More on that for another day.

In the mean time international support (or the lack thereof) from governments has been pretty depressing with both the U.S. and the EU shying away from any tangible pressure on the Govt of Pak. I guess it's always been in their interest to manage a less than democratic leader that didn't have a mandate to serve. The breath of fresh air, quite surprisingly actually, has been Switzerland, who suspended the aid for some military functions.

There has been massive support coming from a number of human rights groups worldwide that condemn the continued and unsupervised affliction of pain on the citizens of this country. Also the legal community in the U.S. has issued a statement through the Yale Law School and Harvard Law School has awarded the Medal of Freedom to the suspended Chief Justice of Pakistan.

Finally, on a very personal note, while I have been thrilled to see the coverage on international media about bloggers trying to get the word out, and so on, I'm truly thankful to all those that have been supporting and encouraging over the past few days.. believe me each one of you is making a difference.. Thank you so much. And yea, for everyone, yes, I'm safe and still typing. Thanks for reading.


"... it's not about being pakistani or not. it's about caring or not. for the world at large. and i have decided a long time ago that i care ... there are so many factors of uncertainty and pressure: having to pretend everything's perfectly normal at work ... trying hard not to freak out my family, and last but not least ensuring my own safety when it is absolutely impossible to tell when journalism becomes a reason for expulsion, compassion turns into recklessness and cautiousness into paranoia..." - So Well Said. So Well Said, Indeed.

Remember, Remember... The 3rd of November

The martial law has now been imposed for a week in this country. Today is a national holiday in celebration of the National Poet, Iqbal, widely known to have envisioned the making of what is now Pakistan at a time when our ancestors were slaves to the Empire. We're still slaves today. Some of us are physically captive, but today our rulers are holding our minds in the shackles of slavery. Iqbal's son has commented, 'Once (Iqbal) he had told me, while looking up at a comet in the sky that one day that comet will return (in 2010) and I will see it through the eyes of my grandchildren. Today, I am certain, looking through his son's eyes, he's ashamed as he looks upon the ugliness that governs what was his vision. Today, I am certain that had he been here, along with Jinnah (who was also a barrister of law), he would be on the streets, with the lawyers, fighting the tyranny that grips us all'. On that note, Respect to the lawyers.

This state has been holding us hostage for a week today. The General and his brutality continues to crack down the whip on anyone that dares to be the voice of dissent. Little does he know that with every baton that falls on the head of someone that believes, many others begin to join that state of mind. Little does he know that when he looks at us and tells the media that we're not much of an opposition since the emergency will be lifted shortly and we'd be gone, that it really isn't merely about the emergency any more. It's about what he has done to paralyze this country. Little does he know what he faces. Someone ought to give him a lesson of history where these 'non-opponents' brought down one of his predecessors, Ayub Khan. Little does he know.

The protests are spreading at a rapid pace now. People are beginning to question the motives of this emergency and are clearly seeing the answer as an attack on the judiciary, and that alone. There are two key things that have to be mentioned in this context:

1. 'Benny Booto' (thanks for the correction on the second name of the formerly Ms Bhutto) and her party, in their demands from the government for 'restoration' of democracy, have made NO mention for the restoration of the independent judiciary. It is clear that no political party wants to see a judiciary that would hamper their endless power, should they come into government (Explains my earlier compelling question for why they're not out on the streets).
2. Legally speaking, the judges were suspended on the basis of not taking the oath under the PCO (the order that replaced the Constitution). Given that, as soon as we get out of emergency, the law would suggest that the PCO would be removed and those judges that had taken the oath under the constitution (and are now suspended) would be reinstated. Not only that, those 4 Supreme Court judges, that have taken the oath of loyalty to Musharraf would have to be removed and jailed since an earlier ruling by the Courts says that anyone taking such that oath would be held in contempt of court. Interesting. Yet not something that is likely to happen.

While Benny continues to become a 'national hero' by 'standing up to Musharraf' today, I am fairly sure that her intentions remain malicious and her final outcome is for them to rule together. There was a lot of drama on this on TV today, I'm sure, as Benny didn't get to go to lead the 'rally' that was 'disallowed' by federal govt. Also, on TV (well, through the internet), I came across this clipping from the police manhandling people in Rawalpindi today. Disgusting images. Wonder how the cops face their own families.. their kids.. when they go home after a day's dirty work. (Again, Facebook Note readers, you can see it on the original blogpost)



In other peculiar news, apparently the professors that have been 'released' didn't actually get formal bail. They were sitting at the house where they were arrested for about 3 days without charge and threatened and roughed up. Out of nowhere at some point, the cops come in, and tell them - we're leaving, you can go now - ! Obviously the captives were quite suspicious of this and thought that if they step out they would be shot for 'trying to escape'. Eventually they did get out and leave for their homes. Now, since they have all been charged with disturbance of public order, and haven't officially been bailed out, they're technically fugitives and the state could come back and screw them over at ANY point. Have you heard of ANYTHING more bizarre?!

As a short update of events happening around the world and led largely by students, LUMS students have continued to protest and rally for the fifth consecutive day. This is especially impressive since their final exams are starting. Watch out for a really effective thing coming out of LUMS real soon (It's a surprise!). Other colleges are starting black band days and organizing themselves further. Thankfully, after realizing that students will not let themselves be intimidated by their presence, riot police has been removed from a lot of institutions including LUMS. Guess they were more needed for Benny and for Rawalpindi today.



In addition to that, Flash protests are making insane amounts of headway in Karachi as a group of young people went to Seaview Beach today and did what they're good at. The positive thing was that they got extra placards and people simply joined in and they ended up as a group about 50% larger than they came. Eye witnesses say that everyone from a family with a small 2 yr old kid to the CEO of an important Pakistani company joined in to support the cause. (No pictures to post due to obvious safety reasons).

Elsewhere in the world, protests continue as a number of them are planned over the weekend, including a remarkably important one at 10 Downing Street, London (British PM's House) and one in San Fransisco, USA tomorrow. There is also one in Washington, DC and something in Chicago. NYC part II and others coming shortly. Power to you all! Also, the Pakistani students in the U.S. are beginning a drive to contact congressmen and senators that are alums of their colleges (since most of these guys are at Ivy League schools, you can imagine the impact of this one!) to put pressure on Musharraf.

Already under international pressure, he has said that elections will be had soon and the emergency will be lifted. Again, the Judiciary?!

A daily 'Emergency Telegraph' has also started circulated and can be available to you on request.

In the media update, CNN and BBC were taken off air again today and remain so. BBC has also started to try and cover this youth movement and many including myself have been in contact with them on different stories. Also trying to reach out to newer channels such as Sky News. A fun idea that's just come up (thanks SAK, this one is creative!).. Take a guess.. FOX NEWS! Haha. I'm contacting the Gods of Propaganda with footage of the happenings here. Let's see how this one turns out.


Finally, I got yet another answer to an FAQ that the 'apathetics' are asking: 'If not Musharraf, we'll end up with those other civilian leaders that are no better. So in a way its good for him to stay.'

Perhaps the point of this isn't about what the alternative leadership has to offer. Perhaps what we're fighting for is not for those people to come to power, but for the constitution of Pakistan and for the institutions of democracy. Who constitutes the pool of viable choices right now is inconsequential. After all, you need to first have the right to choose before you even see who you could choose. If that right and the institutions of democracy you're fighting for are not developed and protected, in all certainty your 'choice pool' will never improve anyway.

I can buy that!

To A Better Tomorrow. For My Grandchildren.

Day 6 - My Pakistan

After the events of yesterday where the processions were well-attended, the momentum was kept up today in Lahore through smaller more symbolic protests. An effort to coordinate the various colleges and universities across the country continues to make headway. LUMS and other institutions still experience a large police presence on their entry and exit points. Things should be shaping up and transforming for the students movement over the next few days.

In Karachi, groups of young people have begun a series of 'Flash Protests'. A brilliant strategy, where at a short notice, people come together at prominent places, engage in an out-of-the-ordinary activity (such as surround themselves in chains or have their mouths sealed with duct tape) , hold placards and give out leaflets. Within minutes and before the approach of police, the protesters disperse as quickly as they had assembled. So far results have been looking effective as they attract enough public attention to have people stop and read what they have to say. Mobilization at universities remains a challenge in the city though.

While official govt figures put arrested individuals at 2000, the Human Rights Watch has estimated actual figures to be many times higher. A large number of lawyers and civil society members are still under arrest, some by intelligence and military agencies. There was a National Security Council meeting that took place and the end of the 'emergency+' was discussed. However, no mention has been made of the fate of the illegally disposed judiciary, removal of which was clearly the primary aim of this action by the General. The Army Act is also being amended, to allow military courts to prosecute civilians - I cannot even begin to imagine the horrors this would bring the country.

CNN and BBC have come back on air, though, so some information will begin to get disseminated. Unfortunately, this looks like a rather convenient time for this to happen, since the coverage is entirely focused on Benazir, who for the benefit of all, will more correctly be referred to in a manner that correctly reflects her American agenda: Benny Bhutto. Her recent statements to the NYTimes and to BBC are portraying her as the knight in shining armor for Pakistanis. Sadly, at a time when other political parties are off the scene, in the larger immediate interest of removal of martial law, one must swallow a bitter pill and support the mass movements called by her party, as maliciously 'manufactured' as this entire scene appears to be.

I'd like to mention something that is becoming an increasingly frequent question for many Pakistanis - 'What's the use for all this protest. It will result in nothing.' It's personally a question that I've been struggling to find a response to. But an interesting thing was said today by someone I have grown to admire:

"Perhaps there isn't a result to this. Perhaps those doing this are driven not by an interest or by even an outcome. Perhaps there is a slightly less 'rational' explanation. Perhaps the only reason they continue to protest and to voice themselves is because within them speaks a feeling that what is happening is wrong. Perhaps it's really just that simple. Of course the larger picture is that if enough people just do this for this reason, the eventual outcome will of course result in numbers that will shake the very foundations of this regime". Perhaps.

Friday is a national holiday, and Benny's party has called a major rally in Rawalpindi. Security situation is likely to be a concern so if you're in Pakistan, please stay safe.

For my readers that understand Urdu, is a little parody of a national song, below. Hilarious. Translation follows for others. Not that hilarious once translated. :)

Pakistan is neither mine, Nor yours
Pakistan is his who is the President of Pakistan

The bigger the shop, the more stolen goods it sells
The one who is the most dishonest, he is the President of Pakistan

The stick defines his rule, the uniform defines his identity
The one whose bottle of spirits is the strongest, he is the President of Pakistan

Whoever is your minister, they're all without a conscience
The one that is the biggest devil, he is the President of Pakistan

Martial Law Day 5 - We're On!

Due to some blogger issues I wasn't able to make an update last night. Also, I have edited the template of this blog a bit and removed some links and pictures. While I am perfectly sure no one's going to come after little old me, my dearest friends (unnamed of course) have convinced me to just stay on the safe side. Also I have edited some recent posts to remove certain pictures and content that could single out any individuals and be a threat to them. For future reference, I will continue to posts pics and vids but try and be sensitive to this bit.

After the protest on Monday, a few things have developed. Most to the positive. I sent some footage I had to CNN through their IReports portal. I don't know yet whether that was a smart move as I've been getting calls and emails from them since. It's 2AM right now and they want to call for an interview right now, for an ireports special they will be having on Friday. Sadly, some of their interviewers sounded rather scared for me! haha! I hope any content that goes through isn't 'manufactured' by them as I'm afraid for that. I guess that's a cost that has to be borne in order to reach maximum levels of proliferation for the happenings in the country. The other scary thing was that the CNN people told me that they were in fact in serious need for content and little was coming through.

Currently, on the whole there is a general state of apathy, and it's very easy to live a normal life without even realizing that something is wrong. The fact that the media is off air results in the state especially 1) getting away with their atrocities, 2)keeping people ill informed and giving a false sense of political inactivity. But that is fast changing, which brings me to the events of today.

An important note right now to all my friends and readers is to be very careful in creating opinions based around what the media is telling you. Due to recent contact with these guys on this story, they are really trying to add as much sellable spice as possible. Please double check with someone in the country, if you can. This stems from how an event at LUMS today was misquoted in the local and international media as a 'violent protest where students pelleted security forces with stones'. Not true.

Allow me to clarify and update.

LUMS Protestors on campus

On this 5th Day of Martial Law in the country, LUMS students came together to take a small walk to the park next to the university and come back. However, at first ray of sunlight, police forces showed up at the gate and started to wander maliciously. In lieu of that, the protest was shifted to within campus and began to proceed, partly silently through the campus up to the main gate. However, given the fast massing riot police outside (with enough batons and tear gas canisters for a battle with Godzilla! Oh and did I mention the further show of brutality - Prison Van!), and reports on similar events in the country (more details below), the administration requested that the procession does not pass the main gate as the cops were literally looking for an excuse to play. In a show of intimidation, they had already 'closed' the gate using a few spare batons. Anyway, so the protest turned back, made a round of the main campus and dispersed. Live to fight another day. A few brave souls though went and sat near the gate on the sidewalk within the campus in completely silent protest giving no reason for a showdown. Of course they were joined by a few others but it concluded without event.

Silent protesters sitting at the gate

Elsewhere, LUMS played a huge leadership role by informing and inspiring universities (through various means) all over north Pakistan. This has yielded tremendous results. All over the region, universities such as FAST, Islamic International University (IIU), Hamdard University and many others have joined in. Quaid-e-Azam university in Islamabad deserves special mention for their first protest in over 25 years of history. FAST, on the other hand, has been locked down with the students inside. As of last reports,