RAWALPINDI: Former Senator Mustafa Nawaz Khokhar has raised serious concerns about the state of democracy in Pakistan, stating that election credibility has been completely lost.
He described elections as a “hollow exercise” and said the democratic process has turned into a “bidding game” among political actors.
In an interview with a private television channel, Khokhar criticized the ongoing political instability, saying that ordinary citizens are bearing the brunt while ruling and opposition parties continue what he called a “musical chairs game” over power. He warned that if the current cycle of political maneuvering continues, there is little hope for meaningful progress.
Regarding Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) recent protest call, Khokhar said the public’s reaction remains uncertain amid the prevailing instability. He also pointed to upcoming street protests by religious parties over legislation related to the age of marriage, which he said adds further complexity to the political environment.
Khokhar urged the government to take the lead in restoring stability. At the same time, he criticized PTI for preferring direct engagement with the establishment over pursuing a political dialogue, saying this approach is deepening the crisis. He called on both sides to come together for meaningful talks to resolve the impasse.
He also expressed concern that the political debate has drifted away from addressing real public issues. “National issues are being ignored,” he said, “and politics has moved away from serving the people.”
