Sukkur
Elite Capture
A new debate is unfolding regarding how a country like Pakistan can achieve rapid economic growth despite the unsatisfactory global economic situation.
Pakistan remains an underdeveloped country, with a significant portion of its population facing deprivation and myriads of socio-economic challenges. This predicament largely stems from the negligence of both former and current ruling elites. Regrettably, the country’s foundations were established on flawed principles; ultimately, the masses bear the burden of these errors. At the same time, the ruling classes and influential powers remain unaffected. Similar to many other nations, the class system plays a crucial role in Pakistan, where a substantial majority belongs to the lower class, and many individuals live below the poverty line.
Unfortunately, each government tends to blame its predecessors for economic decline, with few willing to take responsibility for enacting positive economic changes. When we compare the current political and economic landscape to previous eras, it becomes evident that the ruling elite has consistently relied on foreign funding. For instance, the country’s economy has historically depended heavily on foreign aid, which has been extended as a reward for various collaborations.
A notable example occurred in 1979 when the Soviet forces entered Afghanistan. The American president reached out to Pakistan’s then-president, General Zia-ul-Haq, seeking cooperation against the Soviet forces and the Soviet-supported Afghan government. In exchange, Pakistan received substantial financial assistance, and the president, who had attained power through questionable means, gained legitimacy in the eyes of the superpower. This collaboration lasted until the Soviet withdrawal from Afghanistan.
Similarly, after the 9/11 attacks, the Bush administration sought assistance from the General Pervez Musharraf regime in Pakistan to combat the very same ‘Mujahideen’ that the US had previously helped to empower through its support. This led to the coining of terms like ‘Good Taliban’ and ‘Bad Taliban.’ Financial aid from the US continued until Pakistan shifted its diplomatic focus towards China, exemplified by the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), an unacceptable initiative to the United States. Consequently, the US has become increasingly reluctant to cooperate with Pakistan.
A new debate is unfolding regarding how a country like Pakistan can achieve rapid economic growth despite the unsatisfactory global economic situation. This question is a convenient excuse for stagnation, as many nations worldwide demonstrate that growth is possible. Considering just two South Asian countries—Bangladesh and India—we see evident economic progress despite numerous challenges. Bangladesh, once part of Pakistan until 1971, was often dismissed by our civil and military authorities, who claimed that the Bengali people lacked industriousness and predicted the nation would not survive. Contrary to those predictions, Bangladesh is not only surviving but thriving.
It is crucial to revisit history and recognize that progressive political parties have consistently emphasized the necessity of equality-based economic reforms. Even today, progressive parties echo these demands; unfortunately, the ruling elite remains indifferent to such valid calls for change.
In summary, it is clear that international dynamics impact every country, including our own. However, the primary issue lies with the misguided policies of the ruling elite, who prioritize their own class interests. This situation stems from a flawed governance system that requires urgent reform. Unfortunately, the class that benefits from this corrupt system will do everything possible to resist any meaningful change. In light of this, genuine opposition parties that advocate for the masses must work together to improve our society. By doing so and formulating policies that serve the people’s interests, we can establish relationships based on mutual interests rather than relying on powers like the US or China.
Based in Sukkur, the writer currently serves as an Assistant Professor at the Faculty of Heritage, Aror University of Art, Architecture, Design & Heritage, Sukkur. He can be reached at qasim_shu2016@yahoo.com
A Force for Peace and Stability
American Strategic Discrimination
Cooperation and Confrontation
8th LRBT Golf Tournament Tees Off to Raise Funds
PTCL Injects PKR 4 Billion Capital in U Bank
Don’t play with fire on water issue: Lawmakers
HBL Reinforces Commitment to Sustainability with 2023 Impact Report
Britain’s Princess Kate is in remission from cancer
China’s Himalayan mega dam deepens India’s water worries
World Bank calls on Pakistan to ‘do more’
NAPA bids farewell to outgoing CEO
Bangladesh top court acquits ex-PM Khaleda Zia in corruption case
Taliban free 2 Americans in prisoner swap with US
Nestlé inaugurates biomass boiler
Living Legend Award presented to Dr. Tipu Sultan
Leave a Reply