Unity of thought is vital for successful collective action.
When policies lack clear vision and consensus, they often lead to failure.
Dictatorships and monarchies, where power rests with a single individual, are particularly vulnerable to this.
History shows that unchecked authority breeds flawed decisions, as seen in Adolf Hitler’s regime, where dissent meant death and blind obedience led to national ruin.
Such systems stifle conscience and competence, fostering a culture of fear and moral decay.
In contrast, participatory governance, where diverse voices shape decisions, is essential for stability, accountability and long-term progress.
Centralized power inevitably leads to destructive outcomes.
Democracy, in contrast, allows the collective wisdom of elected representatives to guide the nation.
In healthy democracies, decisions emerge from vigorous debates, legal scrutiny and logical arguments.
Yet, even some democracies devolve into what is called “democratic dictatorship,” where majority rule becomes tyranny over minorities.
When the majority is driven by racism or religious extremism, democracy becomes a dangerous weapon—like handing a loaded gun to a madman.
In countries dominated by illiteracy and poverty, this mob mentality replaces genuine democracy.
Such states, despite democratic claims, effectively become fascist regimes where minorities suffer systemic oppression.
India today stands as a stark example of democracy in decline.
Though it claims to be the world’s largest democracy, the reality under Prime Minister Narendra Modi reveals a rise of fascism cloaked in religious extremism.
Modi’s rise was fueled by exploiting Hindutva, especially during his tenure as Chief Minister of Gujarat, where the genocide of unarmed Muslims and promotion of anti-Muslim sentiments marked his rule.
This agenda has expanded to target Christians, Sikhs and Dalits, endangering India’s pluralistic fabric.
Secular groups, including the Indian National Congress, warn that Modi’s prejudicial policies could lead to India’s fragmentation, yet democratic institutions remain hijacked by a majoritarian, extremist agenda.
In this volatile regional context, Pakistan must carefully chart its course.
Pakistan is a peaceful nation aspiring for stability and progress in South Asia.
India, however, continues to play the aggressor, with the destruction of Pakistan as its primary goal.
The terror unleashed in Kashmir, the abrogation of Articles 370 and 35-A in defiance of UN resolutions and the repression of Kashmiris exemplify India’s hostility.
The situation escalated dramatically on May 7, 2025, when India launched an attack on Pakistan under fabricated claims of terrorism sponsored by Pakistan in Pahalgam, Kashmir.
This brazen act was not only cowardly but miscalculated.
Narendra Modi, an illiterate and shortsighted politician, believed he could crush Pakistan overnight.
He failed to grasp the resilience and spirit of a nation that embraces martyrdom as a pathway to immortality.
The Pakistani response was swift and decisive.
Our valiant forces intercepted Indian jets within seconds, destroying them with precision.
Pakistani pilots targeted military installations, avoiding civilian casualties while Indian strikes targeted innocent women and children in Azad Kashmir and Pakistan’s heartland.
The bravery and professionalism of Pakistan’s armed forces shone through amid chaos.
As a proud Pakistani, I feel compelled to pay tribute to our Army, Air Force and Navy, who played heroic roles during this conflict.
Our leadership deserves special recognition: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu and Naval Chief Admiral Naveed Ashraf.
Their combined efforts and unwavering patriotism turned the tide in Pakistan’s favour.
General Syed Asim Munir’s visits to the front lines boosted morale, reflecting his commitment to national defence.
The government’s decision to elevate General Munir to Field Marshal is a well-deserved recognition of his exceptional leadership.
This historic promotion honours Pakistan’s military excellence and sends a powerful message to India: Pakistan is strong, united and victorious.
For Pakistanis, this is a moment of pride; for India, a humbling acknowledgment of defeat.
Our victory was grounded in unity of purpose.
The unanimous agreement between civilian leadership and military command on war strategy was critical.
A rift between the Prime Minister and the Army Chief would have jeopardized our stability and security.
Fortunately, President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir share a common vision for Pakistan’s future.
This mental harmony and clarity of mission are blessings, fostering an environment where economic progress, national security and social welfare can flourish.
To institutionalize and preserve this unity, I propose the formation of a Pakistan Solidarity Council.
This Council would comprise the highest-ranking officials: the President, Prime Minister, Army Chief, Naval Chief, Air Force Chief and Chief Justice of the Supreme Court.
Their monthly meetings would facilitate unified decision-making on national and international issues, ensuring that policies are coherent, timely and reflective of collective wisdom.
Such a Council would safeguard Pakistan against internal divisions and external threats.
It would guide the nation through turbulent times, helping us realize the vision of an Islamic, social, and democratic welfare state.
In an era of complex challenges—geopolitical tensions, economic instability—the Pakistan Solidarity Council would serve as the ark steering the nation to safe shores.
The formation of this Council is not merely a political necessity; it is a strategic imperative.
Pakistan’s future depends on unity at the highest levels of leadership, mutual respect among institutions, and a shared commitment to sovereignty and prosperity.
By fostering a culture of solidarity, accountability, and visionary governance, Pakistan can emerge as a regional powerhouse and beacon of hope for all oppressed peoples worldwide.
The writer regularly contributes to the national press. (drmaqsoodjafri@gmail.com)
