By Junaid Qaiser
Pakistan stands at a critical juncture in its political, economic and security journey. The choices made today will have far-reaching consequences for the country’s future, particularly its ability to overcome economic uncertainty, restore peace in conflict-affected regions and build institutions that respond effectively to the needs of its people. These challenges are closely connected. Economic recovery cannot be sustained without political stability, development cannot flourish without security, and good governance remains elusive when public institutions fail to deliver.
The recent meeting between PM Shehbaz Sharif and PML-N President Nawaz Sharif at Jati Umra reflects the importance of political consultation at a time when Pakistan needs a clear national direction. Their discussions covered the country’s political and economic situation, security challenges, development priorities and the government’s reform agenda. DPM and Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar and Punjab CM Maryam Nawaz Sharif also attended the meeting.
Pakistan has paid a heavy price for political uncertainty and inconsistent economic policies. What the country needs now is a sustained commitment to reforms rather than short-term decisions driven by political considerations. The economy remains one of the most pressing challenges. Years of fiscal difficulties, inflation, debt obligations, energy-sector weaknesses and limited investment have placed enormous pressure on the country.
Economic reforms also require political ownership. Difficult decisions often generate resistance, but delaying necessary changes only increases their eventual cost. The government must therefore combine fiscal discipline with social protection, ensuring that the burden of economic adjustment does not fall disproportionately on lower- and middle-income households.
However, no economic programme can succeed in an environment where terrorism threatens citizens, discourages investment and disrupts everyday life. This is particularly evident in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, where years of militancy have damaged the social and economic fabric of the province.
The people of KP have suffered enough. They deserve peace, security, education, employment and the opportunity to participate fully in Pakistan’s development. Restoring stability in the province is not merely a provincial responsibility; it is a national imperative.
Governor Faisal Karim Kundi’s recent remarks on the security situation in KP underline the seriousness of the challenge. His call for intelligence-based operations, a zero-tolerance policy towards terrorism and stronger institutional support for security forces reflects the need for a comprehensive and decisive response.
There must be a clear distinction between political disagreement and armed violence. Democracy allows criticism of government policies, peaceful protest and political opposition. These are legitimate features of a democratic society. However, taking up arms against the state, targeting civilians and challenging constitutional authority through violence cannot be justified as political activity.
The state has a fundamental responsibility to protect its citizens. Those who choose violence over constitutional and democratic processes must be dealt with under the law. At the same time, counterterrorism measures must remain professional, intelligence-driven and consistent with constitutional protections and the rights of citizens.
Kundi’s assertion that Pakistan’s security policy will be determined in Islamabad rather than Jalalabad, Kandahar or Kabul also deserves attention. Pakistan’s national security decisions must be guided by its sovereignty, constitutional framework and national interests. Constructive relations with Afghanistan remain important, and diplomatic engagement should continue. Nevertheless, cooperation with neighbouring countries cannot come at the expense of Pakistan’s security or its responsibility to protect its people from cross-border terrorism.
The governor’s demand for Rs160 billion in security resources, which he said had received federal government support, highlights the financial requirements of restoring peace. Security institutions cannot be expected to confront increasingly sophisticated terrorist networks without adequate funding, modern equipment, intelligence capabilities and professional training.
The proposed provision of modern weapons and ammunition to police, alongside improved salaries and compensation packages for families of personnel killed in the line of duty, is particularly important. Police officers are often the first to confront terrorist threats, especially in vulnerable districts. Their sacrifices must be recognised through meaningful institutional support.
According to the security briefing, security forces have killed 3,788 terrorists over the past three years. By September this year, 255 military personnel, 302 police personnel and 304 civilians had lost their lives. These figures reveal the enormous human cost of terrorism. Behind every number is a family that has suffered an irreparable loss. The sacrifices of Pakistan’s soldiers, police officers and innocent civilians must strengthen the country’s resolve to establish lasting peace.
The proposed expansion of the Counter Terrorism Department’s operational jurisdiction to all 34 districts is therefore a significant development. The establishment of District Nerve Centres, Safe City Authorities in 10 districts and Smart Front Desks at 406 police stations could improve the capacity of law enforcement agencies and strengthen their ability to respond to emerging threats.
The planned use of artificial intelligence to identify and counter fabricated narratives on social media also reflects the changing nature of security challenges. Terrorist organisations increasingly rely on digital platforms to spread propaganda, recruit supporters and undermine public confidence in state institutions. Modern technology can help authorities identify coordinated disinformation campaigns, provided its use remains transparent, lawful and respectful of freedom of expression.
Perhaps the most encouraging element of the proposed strategy is its emphasis on rebuilding public trust. The establishment of Dispute Resolution Councils and Tribal Liaison Committees, alongside monthly open courts and regular jirgas, could help address local grievances and improve communication between citizens and government institutions.
Winning public confidence is essential to defeating terrorism. Security forces can disrupt militant networks, but lasting stability depends on cooperation between communities and law enforcement agencies.
The meeting between Shehbaz Sharif and Nawaz Sharif, the security commitments outlined by Governor Faisal Karim Kundi and the debate initiated by Khawaja Asif on administrative reforms all point towards a wider national question: how can Pakistan move from managing one crisis after another to building a stable and effective state?
