The Example

You all know the story of Umar ibn al-Khattab when he was publicly questioned by a man about the extra piece of cloth the caliph had received. Remember that? Ever thought about who the hero was?

Both were.

Umar, for answering the question and keeping public accountability open and transparent. Without using the typical modes of fear, arrest, subjugation, violence, etc.

But that man who questioned him set an example for the rest.

Your job, even if an Umar is ruling you, is to question him. To criticize the ruler. To keep a thorough check and balance. You must ask questions.

Your job is not to appease them. It never was. If they do something good, applaud; then move on to the next critical question.

Criticism is for the one in power. It’s simple and fundamental.

Right now, Pakistan is into awe. Inspired by something that isn’t going to change the life of common people. Inflation, electricity crisis, declining economy, population challenges, water scarcity, joblessness, anti-people constitutional amendments, rule by fear and violence, extrajudicial abductions and killings, and whatnot.

More than half of the country is territory that even Pakistanis would think twice about traveling to. Yet, all praises. All claps. Like a herd of dumb sheep.

These flatterers, with subtle criticism and consistent comparison with the one in jail, are cunning to the core. Pathetic. Intellectually – if they are – dishonest. They are eulogists, sycophants, and are enjoying their turn in making bucks.

There were some flatterers who made money through the same methodology from 2018-2022. They have been replaced by a new set of flatterers who are making money since 2023. New feces. Same stink. Yet, they believe, and they argue, that they are better and they are different.

Nonetheless, remember that nameless person who asked, “We each got the same cloth. How did you get enough for a full robe?”

You must ask the same questions, even though the difference now is not a piece of cloth but entire generations serving another generations with sweat, blood, butter, and soul.