Unconstitutional path

This letter refers to the article ‘The social contract’ (TNS, August 18, 2024) by Alishba Umer. I generally agree with the writer’s views. The failures of the 1973 constitution have been tragic, not so much because of any inherent flaws in the document itself, but primarily because none of the institutions of the state seem to be following their given roles. Indeed some are always trying, directly or indirectly, to usurp power and gain full control over others and indulge in corrupt practices. Failures have also occurred because all our political parties and so-called 'leaders' have selfishly vied for power and made agreements to accept and welcome the manipulations of non-political actors whenever it has suited them.

We as a society have also failed time and again to unite and save our constitution and the ideals of a democracy, as envisioned by our founding fathers. Rather, we have all mostly thought about our own personal interests and benefits, not a national or general good. Charismatic or forceful people have swayed our judgment and hypnotized us into digressing from the straight and narrow path, no matter if it was a Bhutto or several Sharifs or Imran and company. This still goes on.

M Hashim Khan

Mansehra