(Source)
Today marks the day of General election 2018, 100 million Pakistanis will choose their representatives. In Pakistan like all third world countries, electoral process is marred by corruption, pre poll rigging and other type of abuses, resulting in decreased people confidence in electoral process. In 2013 general elections, after getting rid of long dictatorship the voter turnout was only 17.89% and yet this was highest since 1970 and 1979. Poor turnout is an indicator of lack of political awareness and recognition of civic responsibilities. It also shows the reduced public trust in political system. And the root cause behind all of this is illiteracy.
Despite of all inefficacies of the political system, I am still a believer in democracy and hope that one day (after repeated attempts) all of this will change.
This What I Believe in as a Patriot
Each one of us including has a responsibility, an obligation toward our country. If we want the change than we ourselves have to be that change. And for the change all of us need to vote and vote sincerely to bring forward the sincerest and most capable leadership. Democracy is a self refining process. All we need to do is keep voting until the democratic traditions take roots deep into our society, leaving no room for aristocracy.
Hope is our only ally!!!
Me and my wife exercised our right to choose.
It was surprising to see that so many local and international brands were urging people to cast their vote. They offer discounts and free drinks to those who casted their votes.
Let's hope that this time will be better than the last and at least we will have a better voter turnover.