MQM’s Moral Responsibility
By Naveed Khan
Pleasanton , CA
The MQM has a moral responsibility to represent the entire Pakistan rather than the descendants of Urdu-speaking migrants from India. The party’s recent political showcase in Lahore must be welcomed by all. MQM's message of the educated middle class would resonate well in urban Punjab where a great deal of dismay is easily discernable among the youth about the politics and power wielded by the feudal aristocracy. MQM has some very energetic and enthusiastic people to push forward their vision and goals. But the leadership of the party needs to correct some perceptions about MQM.
The leadership of Altaf Hussain has to be questioned because he fled Pakistan and has never returned to face the criminal courts. Why doesn't the MQM hold party elections and elect a leader who is a resident of Pakistan? MQM uses violence and torture to settle political disputes. This perception is so wildly ascribed to MQM that most people call it an ethnic terror group. The MQM leadership must unequivocally declare that they will never resort to violence. MQM is accused of following a policy of ethnic cleansing in certain areas by targeting Pathans settled in Karachi. Why doesn't the MQM leadership have Pathans and Sindhis? MQM must make all-out effort to include Pathans and Sindhis in the leadership cadre in Karachi, Hyderabad, Mirpurkhas and other cities which are dominated by it.
MQM must become inclusive of other ethnic groups in its leadership if it wants acceptance in the cities of Punjab. MQM could be the biggest positive force in the politics of Pakistan. MQM owes it to the people as it has the highest caliber people and organization. MQM cannot and must not do its politics on an ethnic basis as that would be disastrous for Pakistan.
MQM's political sagacity, its international standing and middle class values are greatly needed to bring reconciliation and continue the process of democracy in Pakistan. I would welcome if they expand in Punjab and represent urban Punjab, whose political, social and economic values are very similar to those of the MQM. I want MQM to shun violence for the good of the country.
Let us all welcome them and I hope they become the mainstream party representing all segments of the Pakistani population.
