The only solution to our problems

Musharraf is history now. His resignation was a good riddance. Certainly, the credit goes to Asif Ali Zardari and the democratic forces but we must not waste time in unnecessary jubilation. The democratic forces must vigorously move forward. In September, 2008, most likely PPP Co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari will assume the office of president. PPP co-chairman and the future President Asif Ali Zardari will have more burden on his shoulders to rescue Pakistan. After the tragic assassination of Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto, Asif Ali Zardari raised the slogan of saving Pakistan. Since December 2007, he is playing safe and has emerged as a resilient, mature and sagacious leader. But in coming months more is required. The co-chairman has pledged avowedly to complete Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's mission. If Zardari really wants to accomplish the mission of Bhutto than he has to sincerely strive for the uplift of masses and the solidarity of Pakistan. Mr. Bhutto's mission can only be accomplished by implementing Bhuttoism in letter and spirit.
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto gave a clarion call to establish a society based on four pillars (Bhuttoism):
1.    Islam is our Deen (Religion). The first pillar of Bhuttoism rejects the terrorism, extremism, and sectarianism in our society. Islam preaches moderation, tolerance, non-violence, and co-existence, hence, establishment of an enlightened, moderate, and egalitarian society.
2.    Democracy is our politics. It puts an end to militarism and dictatorship in our society. Preaches freedom of expression, independence of media, protection of human rights, rule of law and independence of justice system. The modern Muslim thinkers support democracy. Quaid-e-Azam achieved his target through democratic process. We need to democratise our society in essence.
3.    Socialism is our economy. It is a great challenge to the exploiters and marauders. The capitalist and the feudal lords have looted the resources of Pakistan. There is no economic parity. Socialism will put an end to capitalism and feudalism in our society. There is a dire need of economic and social justice. This will help to eradicate terrorism, criminals, prostitution, and other social evils.
4.    People are the source of power. In Islam, sovereignty belongs to Allah. The Islamic government is formed through elections for the well being of the people. The will of people is the part and parcel of Bhuttoism. People have every right to decide their fate. The fact of the matter is that the privileged class has always undermined the rights of unprivileged. The touts of imperialism are anti-public. It is very tragic that in the third world, people have no voice. Bhuttoism gives voice to the voiceless. The continuation of a democratic process will establish that the people are the source of power. Bhuttoism teaches social democracy. A recently published book by Dr Maqsood Jafri titled The Ideals of Bhutto, sheds light on Bhuttoism and presents it as a panacea of the social, economic and political ailments of Pakistan.
Asif Ali Zardari needs a team of educated, honest, devoted politicians and intellectuals who believe in Bhuttoism and can play their part in the accomplishment of Bhuttoism. The million-dollar question is whether the present PPP leadership will implement Bhuttoism? Only time will tell as history is the best judge. However, it is easier said than done, which took lives of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and his dearest daughter Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto. One can only pray and wish them Godspeed.
The writer is a barrister and alumni of London and Cardiff University
E-mail: barristerafzal@gmail.com