In the wake of the Kerry Lugar bill controversy, the issue of implementing austerity in government spendings has again come to the lime light. The last time it was in focus was when before the 2002 elections religio- political leaders of the MMA were claiming they would travel in public transport and convert palatial governors/chief ministers houses into orphanages, universities etc etc .. We all know what they did when they came to power in the NWFP province.

Now, Nawaz Sharif, the main opposition leader has again mentioned austerity as a way to rid ourselves of the menace of constantly begging for foreign aid. Well said Mr Sharif !, but only if you could walk your talk.  We want to believe you but how can we? -even your statement on television did not carry the necessary force of conviction in it.  It appeared you were mentioning austerity as a heart warming gesture for the electorate, but personally do not intend following it. Otherwise you would have announced at least some austerity measures beginning with your person or your government in the Punjab.

 If one can remember correctly, Your earlier two stints as Prime Minister of Pakistan did not demonstrate anything in the way of austerity despite your such claims before those elections too. How can we believe you?  It takes guts to implement austerity starting with self.  How can we assume you have the capacity to do that?  In fact, how can we not suspect you being "more of the same" in the myriad of self seeking mediocre Pakistani politicians ?

Faridul Haq

Chitral.

18 Oct 09.

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