Public’s interest in politics grows as PTI gets active

LAHORE: The growing popularity of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) can be judged by the fact that the city’s bus stands, markets and shops are abuzz with discussions and speculations about the next political setup, which is a welcoming sign given that people have seldom been enthusiastic about politics.

Before the PTI became politically active, existing political parties were busy securing their contacts in the establishment for the next general elections. However, the scenario has changed dramatically with the unprecedented rise of the PTI, and the induction of established politicians into Imran Khan’s party. Though there are reservations about some of the new PTI members, given their long history in previous governments, people are still optimistic about prospect of the next government.

It is no secret that the country’s two major political parties are weary of the PTI’s increasing popularity and grass roots support. This is the first time since supporting Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, that the educated classes have attended political gatherings in such large numbers. Although all the political parties claim to have the “full support” of the public, their gatherings show that the reality is otherwise.

Imran Khan has proven that he has a certain charisma, which has encouraged students, women, schoolteachers, celebrities and people from other walks of life to participate in his rallies in Lahore and Karachi. These people were never forced to attend the conventions, a charge that is frequently directed at other parties, and instead did so because they felt that Imran could help eradicate the plague of corruption and bring lasting change.

His rallies portray the picture of a political gathering in which people from all walks of life are supposed to participate, not those who merely chant slogans in favour of their leaders.

It is intriguing to see political heavyweights trying to muster support from their former supporters, as their future outside the government looks bleak, since questions about their wealth and offshore accounts cannot be dodged forever.

“I sincerely hope that the coming elections are not rigged because that is the only way to defeat Imran Khan since people in the country and abroad are fully supporting him,” a fashion model that attended the PTI convention in Lahore told Daily Times.

“I postponed a photo shoot to attend Imran Khan’s Jalsa because I believe he could make a positive difference for our country, which will be home to my children when I am gone,” she added.

It will be a huge challenge for the cricketer-turned-politician to keep up with the hopes of the public, who consider him the best candidate for the future of the country. If the mainstream political parties want to win the 2013 elections, they will need to revamp their style and focus on engaging with more extensively with the public.