Pakistanis love to track people who are in the limelight

Pakistanis love to track people who gather limelight. Some glamourised icons are:
Imran Khan: The cricketer-turned-politician couldn't win the 'match' in dislodging the government as the opposition leader, but was the 'man of moment' throughout the year. His anti-corruption crusade and street agitations kept the ruling hierarchy on the edge. His most smart move was to move the Supreme Court against the ruling family in the wake of Panama Papers, which named the First Family as beneficiaries of alleged money-laundering. But his somersaults in policy matters made him a laughing stock. His indecisiveness and quest to change goal posts rendered him a non-serious status, and critics were apt in questioning his political maturity. But the fact remains that he is the only politician who wants to usher in 'change', as youth and the middle class believe in rallying along with him. Nonetheless, to what extent he can go to deliver in changing the 'status quo' is anybody's guess. This keeps him in the game till the nation goes to poll next time. His third marriage with a conservative-religious woman, and that too in the backdrop of repeated denials, has been quite toiling. The all-rounder is poised with an opportunity to lead from the front at polls. 

Qamar Javed Bajwa: Pakistan's army chief is one of the most outstanding influential personalities in the history of the nation. He is the only public figure, and military person, who is loved, admired and looked upon by all. His courageous policy to defeat terrorism, in the footsteps of his predecessor General Raheel Sharif, has made him a legend. He is successful by all means, as Pakistanis heave a sigh of relief in the wake of military operation named Rudd-ul Fassad. What made him more popular is his impeccable character to steer clear of controversies, and keep the army apolitical. His resolve to abide by law and the constitution has won hearts across-the-board. 

Shahbaz Sharif: The illustrious and all-powerful chief minister of Punjab is in the limelight. He has risen as a phoenix as his elder brother, former three-time prime minister Nawaz Sharif was disqualified from holding public office by the Supreme Court. Shahbaz is known as an ardent administrator, and a go-getter. His style of politics makes him special and that is treading the middle path when it comes to dealing with national institutions. He shuns confrontation, which makes him a darling of the establishment, unlike his elder brother who of late has been pushing a head-on collision course with the judiciary and the military establishment. Shahbaz has in principle been designated as the prime minister candidate by his party, PML-N, but has a tricky road to trek, as resistance comes from his own family and ambitious stalwarts from the party. He is famous for big-ticket developmental projects, and has a following by virtue of his selfless work for his province. Punjab has registered remarkable progress under his stints as chief executive, and many believe he can replicate the model at the federal level.

Bilawal Bhutto Zardari: The youngster is the next generation political breed. Scion of Pakistan's former two-time prime minister and face of democracy, Benazir Bhutto, Bilawal is destined for a role in politics. He is energetic and passionate, which makes him a promising figure in his party, the Pakistan Peoples' Party, of which he is the chairperson. His father, former president Asif Ali Zardari, is co-chairman of the party, which has literally kept Bilawal in shadows. But many say the acumen and wisdom in politics that Zardari has exhibited is a learning process for Bilawal, notwithstanding the controversies associated with it. While Bilawal, who will turn 30, plans his debut election for the parliament this year, he will be one of the most-sought after personalities in the country. The Oxford graduate is in need of reorienting his party's policies and making them relevant as per new dimensions. The legendary Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, who fomented public politics in Pakistan, will be - and should be - his ideal, as he takes practical steps to absolve Pakistan of ill-wills. Bilawal should not be seen as a baggage of dynastic politics, and he should make every effort to thrust in reality and change as he makes inroads in his public career.
THE BELLS TOLLED FOR THEM

Asma Jahangir: It would not be an exaggeration to say that Asma Jahangir, the leading human rights activist, was Pakistan's symbol of liberalism. She fought for civil rights throughout her career, and was a distinguished lawyer. She stood for all kinds of causes and cases, as long as she was assured that the fundamental rights of the citizen are under threat. She was a symbol of defiance for both military and civilian governments, and she treaded the fine line of law and constitution. She believed that religion should not have a role in the affairs of the state, and civilian supremacy should prevail as ordained in the constitution. She served Pakistan at various international forums, including the United Nations Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Religion and Belief and as a trustee at the International Crisis Group. By virtue of word, she was always in the clouds of controversy but apparently that was her mark. Serving humanity was her passion and this is what kept her going. 

Zubaida Tariq alias Aapa: Few people in the social milieu were as popular as Zubaida Aapa. She was a household name, and was widely respected for her expertise and wisdom in advising on issues ranging from cooking to herbal-medicinal tips, as well as values on life. She was the only chef and cooking expert who was acclaimed internationally for Pakistan. She hosted culinary shows and wrote cookbooks. She was also a television celebrity for decades, and belonged to an illustrious family, and was sister of Pakistan's best critic and writer, Anwar Maqsood, and famed novelist and playwright Fatima Surraya Bajiya. Hardly there was any television station or eatery brand that wasn't possessive of having her as their brand representative. She served with humility wherever she went, and left her undeniable mark by virtue of her caring advices, love and passionate tips for viewers. Aapa was a dedicated woman and was instantly available to all as anyone sought her views on cooking and domestic issues. Zubaida Tariq was a well-dressed graceful lady, and was at times, a showstopper in her colourful attires. 
mehkri@khaleejtimes.com

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