Anger continues to rise against President Asif Ali Zardari, as critics lambast the leader for jetting off on a Europe tour while the country faces devastating floods and violence. After his meeting with British PM David Cameron [who made some very controversial remarks against Pakistan last week], Zardari told reporters,
Storms will come and storms will go, and Pakistan and Britain will stand together and face all the difficulties with dignity.
“Storms will come and storms will go“? Very sensitive analogy, Mister President, particularly when 4.5 million people have been affected by floods caused by torrential storms.
Attention has also been directed towards Bilawal Bhutto, son of Zardari and the late Benazir, the “heir” of the Pakistan People’s Party. In a biting article entitled, “Bilawal Bhutto Zardari: Born to Rule Pakistan, but Destined to Fail,” the Telegraph‘s Dan Nelson wrote,
So this Saturday, the Bhutto-Zardari family will present Bilawal Zardari, or “Bilawal Bhutto Zardari” as he is now known, as the PPP’s new leader, head of the family business, at a party rally in Birmingham. Despite his tender age and minimal experience of Pakistan, the young scion of one of the country’s wealthiest feudal families will take over the reins of the country’s largest political party…It’s a position for which there was neither contest nor welcome contestants. While the PPP has a number of promising up-and-coming MPs, like Palwasha Khan, or inspirational and able veterans like Aitzaz Ahsan (the former interior minister who led the successful lawyers’ movement to reinstate the deposed chief justice), merit simply doesn’t come into it.
In a statement released Thursday though, Bilawal “categorically denied” that he would be launching his political career tomorrow, emphasizing that he is instead opening a donation point for the flood victims in Pakistan. He stated, “I felt it was necessary to issue a statement to counter some inaccurate information that has recently been reported. As for my future plans, I intend to continue my education both academic and political.”
The back-and-forth has left me both perturbed and irritated. First, why are we still so surprised and incenced by the presence of dynastic politics in Pakistan? Yes, it is disturbing that the PPP and political parties in the region as a whole portray political office more as a family business than a merit-based career. But isn’t that also something fundamentally wrong with society’s perception of politics? Don’t we, at the end of the day, vote [at least some of] our leaders into power? If dynasties have become the norm in the region, then society also plays a role in perpetuating the reality of personality-based politics.
Second, are we selective in our criticism of Bilawal Bhutto? I find it interesting that past coverage of his political journey have been framed alongside the presence of his cousin Fatima Bhutto, not veteran politicians who have devoted their careers to the PPP. Articles have discussed who is more “deserving” of the PPP throne, with Jemima Khan acidly noting in 2008, “If everything’s in a name, Fatima need not have changed hers in order to inherit. Brought up in Pakistan, unlike Bilawal, and a native speaker, she is an established writer and political commentator. At least she has some work experience. Aunt Benazir’s first-ever job was prime minister of a 160-million-strong nation.” Yowza. Catty.
While I am not a proponent of personality politics, and certainly not of the paradoxical “dynastic democracies,” I do think it’s important to go beyond being angry about Bilawal Bhutto and ask deeper questions about the prevailing reality of Pakistan. Also, I do think (as I mentioned in my last post) that we really should be concentrating our energies elsewhere – like actually donating our time and money towards the millions of people impacted by the floods. Isn’t that what’s really important right now?
Hey-great post!
In a way, I agree with you in that we should be concentrating more on the flood victims. But in the grand scheme of things, the floods are a short-term problem. I would argue that political parties are not, and so we should be paying just as much long-term attention to Bilawal and his “takeover” of the PPP as we are doing to making sure we raise enough funds and awareness about the flood victims.
Dynasic politics are not surprising–and that in itself is a disappointment to me. I expect nothing else (or less) from the Bhutto clan. I would, however, like to be surprised one day by merit-based appointments within the PPP. Just because you are a Bhutto, does not mean you can rule a country. And I have a feeling that Bilawal will make a bigger mess of things.
Bilawaal’s entering the politics or becoming the party’s head is inconsequential. When Benazir was alive she was training him to run the party in future so I believe we knew about their political intentions already.
The thing is that people and media are furious because the President left the country at such crucial time and apparently the ‘launching’ of his son’s political career was deemed more important than the sufferings of millions of people who lost everything in the floods.
No I completely agree with you, but in general there has been a ton of attention paid to Bilawal as a whole – which is not unjustified at all, I just find it interesting.
Very apt comment! Thanks a lot for outing this important issue in perspective. What is needed is a drastic change in our collective mindset and overhauling of legal structure that governs the system of political business in our country.
Pakistan desperately needs to get rid of its Bhuttos and Sharifs. And the right wing nuts too. The one reason I hate voting for the Congress party here is the fact that the Nehru clan has such a strong hold in it. However, Rahul Gandhi seems like a pragmatic chap. Nevertheless if he was seek the Prime Minister’s post, I will vociferously protest.
And the nation closest to providing fast relief to the affected people of SWAT valley is India. But no, our so called leaders have to fight. And you know what, we still do not know who killed Benazir.
I remember, Gen. Musharraf telling NDTV, that it costs about Rs. 2 crore a day to keep an armed contingent at Siachen. His exact words “Rs. 2 crore, peanuts right”
So yes, money is wasted at ridiculous ends. The people who need the assistance never get it. Sad.
Just because she was training him and the public knew about by and large, still doesn’t make it right. If nothing else, it should make protesters more organized.
For PPP’s talk about democracy, their own party is an authoritarian state.
*writing instead of “outing” which was a typo in my comment above
Dynastic politics are somewhat common is western democracies as well. George Bush’s grandfather was a senator, father president, and we know what became of him. Hillary Clinton’s husband was president, and now her secretary of state role seems to be prepping her for her eventual run as president. Obama’s opponent, McCain, too came from a political family, his dad having been a senator.
Pakistan seems to have taken that to an extreme, with it almost being necessary, for the PPP at least, for the leader to be somehow related to the Bhutto family. I think, however, that that kind of thing prevents, to a degree, the competition inherent in a democratic process, and if they carry on this way, the results of the ballot-box won’t be pretty.
i think the outrage over bilawal is healthy. to me, its evidence of political maturity in the system. its the expression of anger that causes change, and maybe, some day, the inner workings of political parties will be as democratic as the nation-wide democracy that their leaders take great pains to espouse.
Haha atleast he will have a degree because apparently you can’t be a leader or a polition without it. *cough* bull s**t.
I think if he is genuinely interested who the eff are we to stop him? Atleast he is interested regardless of what the perception is of his or his families intentions. We vote, we have that. So if the people of Pakistan don’t believe in what he stands for or what his political party stands for don’t vote for the PPP and him.
Btw in the mean time if anyone finds someone actually worth voting for please do share that highly classified info.
Back to your article. It was never hidden that Bilawal was going to one day be the chairman of PPP. We’ve all known that since he was born. He’s coming of age and in our faces now so that’s probably why he’s all over the news.
I just hope Shehzada Saleem has started taking Urdu tuitions.
A frustrating state of affairs. Pakistan is being treated as a kingdom.
Btw , I too wasted(perhaps) my time writing on the issue regarding the ‘throne’.
http://natashasuleman.wordpress.com/2010/08/05/baba-sayeen-is-the-best-father-your-highness/
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Dynastic democracy is just like authortarian rule, a dictator or so called political Govt hardly any diffrent than military rule. we know what has changed with arrival of political Govt and dparture of dictator, is there any change in policy. tribes are being bombed with jet fighter plane, heavy artillery is firing on speculaive targets, drone attacks continue, NATO is being supported.no change at all , rather the change is for worse.
i believe bilawal is also ok , though he knows nothing about problems of common pakistanis. What is really sad, our ruler badly rely on cheat people. Their kitchen cabinits are made up of greedy people with no insight or even affection for people. king have been even monor in the past but their ministers , courteer were wise people, and many of them ruled well but in pakistan , rulers, their ministers, advisers, and supporters all are bunch of class of people who are only conserned about themselves. They have no love or passion for the country or people. i pray for good shepherd of this nation.
I think its really manipulative of the PPP to host its leadership discussions (let alone some random appointment ceremony, in BIRMINGHAM of all bizarrely obscure places) at this time.
Yes, party politics and its infrastructure is a long term issue/problem in Pakistan and that is eaxctly why any significant discussions on it should be had when teh country is focused and engaged. Now is most definotely not that time due to the devastating floods.
As hard as it is to believe, somewhere behind Zardari (far, far behind), there is a clever brain looming within PPP ranks that has sought to exploit this opportunity of a distracted, suffering country, to annoint the latest Bhutto heir as undemocratically ellected leader. This dynasty will never, ever break.
Dont u think democracy needs to prosper in pakistan. . . . . . . . .
Military should confined to its responsibilities as chowkidar and guard. . . . . . . . .
Ajkal Army chief bhe mulk say bahir hai,us per koi etaraz nahen. . . . .kion?
Bilawal Bhutto Zardari always states that he wants to change the system. He wants to fight against the basic evils of our system and change it into good features. He is determined to change the system and hence change the society. He always talks about the poor people of Pakistan like his mother and his grandfather used to. He is in favor of real democracy in Pakistan that’s why he insists on it. When he visited China with Jahangir Badar, then mostly he talked with Chinese politicians and government officials on the merits of democracy and demerits of dictatorship. Chinese officials were highly impressed to see a very young guy talking about democracy and taking Bhutto heritage on his shoulders which is definitely the heritage colored with the blood of thousands of poor people. That’s why he states that the real strength of Pakistan Peoples Party are its poor but loyal workers which are farmers, workers, servants and general youth of Pakistan.
If the people of Pakistan (ESP SINDH)….vote for Bilal (just because of his Mom’s legacy) after going through this whole flood disaster and being neglected by their “leader”, God save the country…..they have their own selves to blame.
That’s kind of harsh. If they do vote for him, it’s not really because they want to. Most rural folk are uneducated and are essentially instructed to “vote” for their caretaker aka The Feudal.
agree with need to look beyond our anger at this bilawal and ask bigger questions about pakistan….however i cannot stand him or his father. his mother was amazing, but she and her influence is gone.
this is a spoiled kid who has no idea, …he takes all this for granted, yes its great he will do something for floods….all to manipulate the people for a future to be PM.
any son of a man who rid his wife’s coattales and cheated his nation is scum of the earth to me. growing up to see your father destroy your mother in public, fame, money, family and so much must also be a huge factor to why this tiny guy is so mentally and emotionally fu—ed up!!!!
then again i also have little faith in a nation that was so emotional over benazirs death that they let this kid and his father be the leaders.
dont trust him never will no matter what he does. i think it is shameful and absolutely a mockery that a 19yr old became head of our nation the day the greatest woman of our nation was murdered by a misogynist finatic hater—her husband!
Contradition of Pakistani government! Are we monarchy
we just, should be. Besides what makes Bilawal the icon
no emient nepotism! They all have same majority of us still
lingering with poverty. Shall he sell his propertis in EU and
UK. Larger estate in Doha and Kuwait City while. Average
Pakistani is dirt poor, say what you will. I doubt he can retain Pakistan Zardari is detested! But if fools believe he
have agenda what ever! New name Pakistan Imperial
Kingdom of Bhuttos! Shah Bilawal!
I am with Ghassan, he gets it
I support a united non regionalism Pakistan. For myself dad was Sindi and mom Baloch. Still wonderful parents only problem. Since beginning of Pakistan: exclusion of regions. This create all ethnic problems simple address. Them economically and culturally, Bilawal grandfather. Promise so much and regimes afterward achieve. Nothing no elite as Bhutto’s and Zia families pay. No taxes my concern what is purpose of assets. Out side of Pakistan if work hard so be. But to tell us to make Salah and steal for treasury. Those days are over I feel humiliated since. Flooding if the overnment could establish. Better organizational cooperation this could been prevented. Still Bilawal your poor example using Neo Colonial political science. It is your right to run not lead a efficient Pakistan! So you own is this dictatorship they way. The disharmony is presently we need strong leaders. Bilawal I suggest you become political influence
get of the ego. From you mother whom live in opulence abroad! Entitle Pakistanis whom, do not understand the struggle. Survive I give even my village always. A support
my political party also Bilawal do actually. Know Pakistan?
Poverty is overwhelming so when become leader if this. Is
appropriate yes, rise of middle class. Your father is inept
example of leader for Pakistan. Bilawal yes, it rings a bell
when crown you. Pashashah of Bhutoo Imperial Empire of
Crooks to torment Pakistan. If you believe in fairy tales
the days of family dynasties are coming to. End in Pakistan
or maybe I share this. Somewhat monarchy yes Bilawal
dependence on Kuwait. And Nawaz on Al Saud and Oman
so the governmental polices. Still are influence by greedy
Arab monarchies. To enrich there own economic means!
Bilawal if you say your the leader so be it! Your Imperial Royal Higheness Shah of Fools! Bilawal learn to share
your wealth Pakistanis need. Your riches Mr. Selfish!!!
Bilawal you no your guilty not by. Choice but up bringing, youcan change this. Get elected what your taught to about. Principles I’m baffled Bilawal your mother. Two times impeached: father is lost and only lingering. Shadows of doubt why should any of us. Case assurance of Bhutto’s no it is your right. To do what create havoc and lives. Writers are accurate I saw with my eyes. The home in Tunis luxury your parents. Informed you Bhutto’s are Allah chosen were! In the Quran what Surah? As Benzair said formerly, she new more about Islam. Than the Mullahs is a fact: during your Mom. Tender as Prime Minister never any mosque. Nor Islamic schooling prompted this is odd! Bilawal your going to night clubs in UK and EU. I forgotten drinking red wine Zardari. Allows this behavior for a Muslim society! Bilawal Pakistan is no longer a ‘Commonwealth ” member. Can you answer me
your education is so. Western influence why not attend in
Pakistan. Ummah I suggest either Egypt,Syria,Iran and Saudi Arabia. Diplomacy has to appease the slave master whom cause. Pakistan liabilities regarding terrorist nation!
So when become are leader of tomorrow. This going to stop? Confused Bilawal your Dad has not change. This
but with hesitations of course your going to enlighten. Pakistan Benzair told so many stories on economic prosperity. Yes, this why Bilawal including many. Enjoy the
good life money and oppression! Bilawal you gain respect if you cease the superficial. Lies of your parents Pakistan is
broke real men. Fix problems not run like children before.
Decide to achieve political success get ride. Of your Dad
and greedy siblings whom. Rob Pakistan it is true brothers
all the administrations. Stole from us Musharraf lives modestly, haves billions abroad. Bilawal your parents also
have assets in Abu Dubai and Shajah. Worth hundreds of
millions Bilawal Pakistan would. Respect you if you give back to us we need. Finance to civil progress if you care.
Your contrive to be autocratic yes despotic. Bilawal continue on living the good life. Playing with Islam Allah shall judge you. As Shia your also follow the faith I presume? Bilawal shall you protect us from discrimination.
Zardari ignore are call for protection nor anything. Dealing with Islam your the example Bilawal: your Mom. Promise
Shia madrasa what happen to these. Proposals just talk,
Bilawal you can no longer. Use the same deception on Pakistan. Drink tea with Europeans whom detest us! Oxford man whom, ignorant about political heave they say
about Pakistan! Life of the Pakistani privilege Bilawal!
Simply Bilawal why should anyone trust. Your lack, of experience is because. Family honor I’ll confused or something! Whom actually leads Pakistan not the Bhutto’s
Henceforth, why should we seek your candidancy! Bilawal
your Mommy said: your entiltled but why? Pakistan has
political image has been tarnish due. Corruption starting from you Parents, I now Bilawal. You’ll that angered and from opposing party. If you becoming leader of Pakistan
can you undo. The damage economically, and fundamental
exsertion. Bilawal your down fault is hidding in the shadows. Of home Mommy or Granddaddy certainly not your. Dad whom everyone is tired of lack of knowledge. If
really love Pakistan start visiting and become part. Of are
culture I guess not your the icon of certainty. Bilawal never
mind my comments yes. Your name still is establish among
those whom. Consider you the example for strong Pakistan! Either you or Sharifs and MQM. Then Military decides shall benefit an poor Pakistan! Bilawal Mr. Pakistan!
Bilawal for your career successful businessman. No doubt, President it is
over for the Bhutto’s we had enough. Of the lies so join your father. Soon
Bilawal in exile since you enjoy Europe over the Ummah!
Reverse the rules and requirements future. Leaders of Pakistan to educated in Ummah not Europe. See western
perception is no way convey in Pakistan. Bilawal has made
allot of business friends rich Saudi princess and yes. European influence does this relex, becoming honest. Leader with your family track record. You make comic of yourselfs. Face my friend either you accept responsible.
Conduct or face it very true exile military is awaiting. A strong Pakistan I live in Kuwait most. Business elite favor
military taking over government. Until Nawaz returns Allah
only knows the truth! Certain without the Bhutto’s lies of
freedom Pakistan is broke. And continue to lie about tomorrow! Give Pakistan honesty not lies Bilawal! Mr. Liar!!