South Asian scene
The mass media in South Asia is taking keen interest in the upsets and trends witnessed at the recent general elections in Pakistan. Democracy was not allowed to take roots in Pakistan in the past.
The germ hibernated in Pindi, when Sk Mujib was not allowed to become prime minister after winning the general election. Such raping of so-called western democratic practices continues. New books are needed on democratic practices in the third world nations.
Both Pakistan and Bangladesh are passing through teething stages--unusual after so many decades. It shows the lack of political depth, acumen, foresight. dedication, honesty and moral principles.
There is no middle class in Pakistan (the thinking class); and the country is dominated by one big province, which also dominates the army. The country is full of deserts and non-arable lands. Enough water is available only in the Punjab--thanks to the British canal network. The density of population is low, around 150 per sqkm (compared to 1.000/psqkm in BD). The landed class dominates the society, hence the low-income voters are helpless. When politics fails, religious bigotry fills the vacuum. This is what is happening today at the global level, with the focus on Talibans and al-Qaeda groups.
The rich Western powers are now beholden to Asia, due to rising dominance of giant China in the global market. Just south is another nation with a population of one billion (India). Western affluence is diminishing (as it should, according to the theories of economics).
Since South Asia today is in the melting pot, Bangladesh has to keep fit to meet the challenges of the coming decades. But our leadership cannot stand on its feet and deliver.
Both Pakistan and Bangladesh have to see the light at the end of the tunnel; with big brother India as a witness. The future of one and a half billion people is at stake. The market is big; and the price/investment is enormous.
A new type of leadership is required in South Asia in this century of changes. We have the potential: we need the opening and the opportunity.
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