In the storm's eye

There is a need on the part of the government to urgently set its house in order. That security agencies need an overhaul was brought out at the hearing of a Senate committee where both the Advisor for Interior and Interior Secretary were present. The vacancies in the cabinet created as a result of the withdrawal of the PML-N ministers should be filled to make it work efficiently. With the Eid festival ending, all the major leaders are available now. The government should, therefore, convene the Parliament at the earliest to formulate a policy on terrorism that enjoys national consensus.

Pakistan badly needs peace for its economic and social development. It cannot allow a handful of misguided people playing in the hands of the country's enemies to kill innocent citizens, attack government installations and torch schools and private businesses. The policy as Mr Zardari told the Fox TV has to focus on winning the hearts and minds of the people and alienate them from the terrorists. Pakistan must, however, tell the US it will not in any case allow the violation of its geographical frontiers.