Adil Najam
Following our tradition from last year, and despite the rather spotty record, we once again ask our readers to predict what might have transpired between now and when the last day of 2010 rolls around. We give here a bunch of possibilities, which of these – multiple answers are OK – do you think would have come true between now and the end of 2010.
This is a blog poll – and its should be taken no more seriously than that. Our purpose is to facilitate discussion and reflection; there is very little about it that is scientific. We have come up with a list of 15 possible news stories that could become big in 2010. Some of these, if they were to transpire, would be desirable developments; some clearly not. These may not be the most ‘likely’ stories of 2009. They are merely our list of some interesting possibilities in multiple domains. The list is, by definition, subjective. One hopes it is also reflective and will lead to reflection by our readers. We have no doubt that there will be other stories that could and will become big in 2010. Feel welcome to discuss those in your comments.
I think Musharraf will be back in power in 2010 which will be very good to the country
While 2009 was traumatic, the dawn of this New Year brings hope to this country that we will survive these acts of cowardice as these extremist are no friends of Islam, they are against the values of democracy, freedom of expression and the very basic notion of human rights
I think by far the most UNlikely event is an all-out war with India. Such a provocation, if indeed there is one, will almost certainly come from the Indian side, but I think they are smart enough to realize that any deliberate action will lead to mutual destruction.
Are these number of votes as % is not correct?
Pakistan is in the midst of multiple crises of confidence ranging from lack of basic security and political stability to continuing economic stagnation, many of which are of their own making. More than anything else, what the nation needs now is sincere, strong and wise leadership to deal with both internal and external threats. Pakistan needs leaders who can not only respond to the urgent national security problems now, but those leaders who can also ensure a better future looking beyond the current “war on terror” and US demands on Pakistan to a time when the US will leave the region and Pakistanis will have to live with the consequences of their actions in support of the United States. Pakistanis should use force when necessary against the militants and murderers, but they must not shun other avenues of political dialog and necessary reforms to build a national consensus for peace, stability, social justice, and shared economic benefits.
Pakistan is just too big to fail. In spite of all of the serious problems it faces today, I remain optimistic that country will not only survive but thrive in the coming decades. With a fairly large educated urban middle class, vibrant media, active civil society, assertive judiciary, many philanthropic organizations, and a spirit of entrepreneurship, the nation has the necessary ingredients to overcome its current difficulties to build a democratic government accountable to its people.
Please read more at http://www.riazhaq.com/2009/12/pakistans-decade-of -1999-2009-in-review.html