Will Pakistanis Listen and Act?

****The following news item offers interesting initial steps needed to reduce the terroristic and militantantly intolerable components of today’s Islam as practiced by many Muslims:****

July 21: President Gen Pervez

Musharraf said on Thursday that Pakistan stood by the United Kingdom in the fight against terrorism and announced that a special cell would ensure registration of seminaries in the country by December 2005. Addressing the nation on radio and television, he said the UK and Pakistan needed to take ‘serious measures’ urgently to eradicate the menace of terrorism rather than blaming each other for London bombings.

****It is esential these commitments be CARRIED OUT.****

The president said that while Pakistan had launched a crackdown on banned extremist outfits, the government of Prime Minister Tony Blair should also see to it that organizations like Hizbul Tehrir and Al Muhajiroon were not allowed to operate in Britain.

****Good suggestion.****

He emphasized that the West should help resolve political disputes facing the Muslim world which, he said, were at the roots of extremism and terrorism. He said he had proposed two-pronged strategy of enlightened moderation – one prong to be delivered by the Muslim world and the other by the West. It would be a win-win situation for all, he said.

****Agree.****

Gen Musharraf declared that no banned organization would be allowed to operate in the country under any name and strict action would be taken against violators. He said that possession and display of unauthorized arms was strictly prohibited.

He warned that stringent action would be taken against elements involved in printing, publication and distribution of hate material, including newspapers, magazines, handbills and pamphlets, and audio and video material. “Banned organizations will not be allowed to collect any kind of donations and action will be taken against those giving hate-containing sermons in mosques on Fridays,” he said.

****Very good intentions but these need to be effectively and aggressively implemented.****

He sought support of countrymen in the fight against extremism and terrorism and in promoting the real essence and true values of Islam for the cause of Pakistan. He asked people to wage jihad against those fanning hatred and preaching violence in society in the name of religion.

****President Musharraf should be supported aggressively by moderate Pakistanis. This chance may not arise again, if lost.****

He stressed the need for ridding the society of extremism and terrorism, saying that proponents of these theories were causing harm to Pakistan by their actions. “They are bringing a bad name to our great religion of Islam by spreading hatred and chaos in society,” he said.

****The maximum damage is resulting to Pakistan. Rest of the world is progressing, though it could be better for them also.****

He asked the nation to reject such elements in the upcoming local government elections and vote for those who wanted to steer the country towards progress and prosperity.

****This will be the real test of the true nature of Pakistani population. They should follow their President.****

Gen Musharraf said that by such heinous acts these extremist elements were not achieving anything other than bringing a bad name to Islam and the Muslims.

****HOW TRUE!****

He said Pakistan’s destiny was closely linked to that of the Ummah and as an important country of the Muslim world Pakistan was playing a leading role in the fight against terrorism. He said collective efforts should be made to put the Ummah on road to progress.

****WHILE IT IS TRUE THAT UMMAH SHOULD BE PUT ON THE RIGHT PATH, Pakistan needs to rid itself of this equation with the religious leaders who are rarely sensible enough to understand the modern world.****

He said that the foundation of “real democracy” had been laid in the country and hoped that it would not be derailed. He said the focus would remain on transferring the benefits of economic development to the masses by reducing poverty, providing jobs and checking price-hike.

****It is far from certain. Until and unless there are three or four fair elections the jury is out on these claims.****