To Benazir

Politics has not been a soothing subject of discussion for a clear majority. Now I may be presumptuous at taking such a shot, but the thought of rivalry for the throne of power to rule over people by elections that often leave a stain, on more than just the finger of a voter, is not a comforting idea. In the subcontinent, elections are that time of the year when people get together to see sleep deprived news anchors keeping a tab on a party representative’s performance in a remote town, which they are probably hearing for the first time. Almost like an international beauty pageant where one becomes aware of many countries by gaping at the sash worn by half naked girls with collar bones jutting out. But this is not what I wish to write about. This time around, no wise ass lines, no crack pot wit.

Strange as it seems, being in India for all my life, Pakistan to me has meant great cricket matches, historical connections, volatile relations and some very powerful and charismatic leaders. The country’s internal politics have also prompted many discussions and debates here. Military dictatorship or democratic rule, Pakistani socio-political situation, at various times, has affected me to thinking about the ramifications on India and into what the two countries would be led. One Pakistani leader has always stood out for all the courage and hope lent. Benazir Bhutto.

I was shocked to hear that Benazir Bhutto was assassinated yesterday from a close range. This was during her rally where she planned to lend optimism to the people. I do not know if her politics was best suited for the country. But when she came back to her homeland in October this year, the one thing that was evident was a certain cheer she brought on faces looking for better governance.

Not a favorite subject, not my most confident write, but yet there is something within me that cannot help but feel sad about the turn of events. I remember an interview Bhutto had given long ago to an Indian channel. She had told her story beginning from the execution of her father, to the exile, to her return to power, and her agenda for Pakistan. I may not have completely agreed with her political ambitions, but her courage was incomparable. Her stern resolve to return to her country despite precarious political and social metamorphosis was truly laudable. During the course of events, she repeatedly confirmed to all that she was well aware of the fact that death may come beckoning any moment but yet she touched down and felt at home on returning to a political scenario, one that is still very confusing to me.

She leaves behind a legacy of lion-heartedness and strength for people who believed she could be an agent of change. In a recent chat, she jocularly mentioned that she was called as one who’s not the favorite of the 3 A’s – Allah, Asif (her husband) and America.

I do not wish to believe that the hope she displayed in her rallies has gone down to dust with Bhutto’s assassination. Peace be with her!