Polling is over, and people eagerly await the results to find out who won. Irrespective of forecasts or some wishful thinking, the common denominator of the voting public, (and the majority who did not cast their vote, whether or not their names appeared on the eligible voters' list) is the hope that things will improve.
The last eleven months have seen so much that could have been avoided, and some calamities that one could not even wish upon one's enemies. People now hope that they have seen the last of such mayhem, and they can look forward to a peaceful and prosperous future.
Such optimism, however misplaced, is a true cry from the hearts of millions who have suffered, or are still suffering from acute deprivations and injuries to body and soul. Bodily harm can heal, but damage to one's psyche or inner soul is irreparable.
In strict economic terms, it boils down to the material well-being of the general public, counted as per capita income; adequate food supply; good health, education, transport, water, power and other services; a secure and peaceful atmosphere; and equal opportunities for every one.
The election manifestos of the various political parties promise heaven on earth to everybody to entice votes, but in terms of the facts on the ground, the truth is extremely unpalatable.
To put it very briefly, the minimum that the people look for immediately, are: (i) availability of food and other necessities of life at affordable prices and in reasonable quality and quantities; (ii) a swift decline in the soaring inflation rate; (iii) a boost to the purchasing power all around; and (iv) an equitable and just dispensation of benefits for every one.
Whatever the composition of the next administration maybe, the above imperatives will be the criteria on which the 160 million Pakistanis and their future progeny will judge their performance.
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