The answer to both questions is probably 'no' because since 1947 our political parties have seldom practised what they preach. If there were to be a new beginning in this regard we might just be able to lay the foundations of a better political tradition. Although it cannot be said that the people of Pakistan are infatuated with authoritarianism, it is fair to say that they are quite cynical about their political figures whose shenanigans they have had an ample opportunity to observe since the last restoration of democracy. But none of this should be of any comfort to the military government whose record in office has put paid to the high hopes entertained of military rule. The economic situation has worsened, the law and order situation is bad, administrative efficiency is at an all-time low.
People are justified then in asking as to what have been the fruits of military interventionism.
Against this backdrop of dissatisfaction comes this new alliance. There is also increasing talk in the country, some of it reflected in newspaper columns, that things cannot go on like this. The government should be paying heed to all these developments. Nepra had already allowed Wapda an interim increase of 11 paisa per unit after preliminary hearings in September last when the Authority first came to it with the demand. The increase of additional 5 paisa per unit will also be effective from September but the arrears will be collected with the January bills as Nepra has advised Wapda not to add to the burden of the consumers in the month of Ramazan.