Failing Malala

This refers to the editorial, ‘Failing Malala’ (June 8). The editorial says it all about the apparent reluctance of our political leadership to own Malala and her mission. The world has recognised her role as a campaigner for education and peaceful change. This means we are at odds with the rest of the international community. This glaring contradiction raises questions that need immediate answers.
While fighting terrorism Pakistan cannot afford to run with the hare and hunt with the hounds. A clear choice has to be made without further loss of time. The war against militancy cannot be won by half-hearted measures. Without the victory of peace all tall and vociferous claims of turning our country into an Asian Tiger will fall flat. Let us take a clear stand on Malala without falling prey to baseless conspiracy theories. We will get nowhere if dillydallying remains the central feature of our plan to countering terrorism.
B A Malik
Islamabad