Governance and positions of authority exist to improve society and set an example. When we read history, we don’t find mention of the idle or the careless. When we search for examples, there are very few of the lazy; history remembers only the brave who worked with dedication, perseverance, and courage. The people who are remembered are those who set aside personal gain and worked for others. Wars remember brave and fearless commanders. Politics remembers justice, honesty, and service to humanity.
When we study history, we see that rulers did not simply become leaders by chance; their qualities and contributions determined their positions. In hereditary rule, sometimes a capable person emerged, but more often than not, incompetence prevailed. And when there is no hard work behind authority, the ability to make sound decisions also diminishes.
Let me give a present-day example: the floods in Pakistan. Floods have come before, but this time the devastation crossed all limits. Whoever helped the victims felt it as a blessing of God upon their good deeds. When despair, hardship, and helplessness were everywhere, for the first time, we saw a true sense of responsibility alongside public service. Punjab’s Chief Minister, Maryam Nawaz, showed what leadership really looks like. Behind every step she took, there was teamwork. Relief efforts in Punjab were handled much better this time. From the very first days, the displaced felt comforted knowing someone was there for them-not with mere promises, but with a real commitment to rebuilding their lives.
Instead of handouts, people’s own money was spent back on them. No one went to bed hungry. Even critics acknowledged the performance as effective. This is the true right of the people-that the representatives elected by them serve as caretakers, not rulers. When the Chief Minister of Punjab said, “I am the mother of Punjab,” she lived up to that role during this disaster. She monitored relief efforts step by step and kept a sharp eye on everything within her reach.
Other parties’ representatives should do the same-public money should be spent only on the public. If budget funds were used sincerely for people and cities throughout the year, every city in Pakistan could flourish. But because there is no real accountability, corruption becomes the norm. Weak systems and ruined institutions allow nepotism, bribery, and financial manipulation to thrive. Like the fire of hell calling out for “more, more,” corrupt politicians and bureaucrats cry out for more government funds to devour, while the rightful beneficiaries are left to suffer.
My humble request to the Chief Minister is this: God has blessed you with the ability to lead. As a woman, you are standing with the people and handling administrative challenges with strength. Now, set an example. At the very least, fix the system in every department of Punjab. In other countries, governments come and go, but the system remains strong-it cannot be easily shaken. Every citizen is bound to follow it. End the contractor system. Involve international companies-let them build roads that are uniform from villages to cities, bridges that are unmatched, and parks that are world-class.
Do not rely only on the polished routes bureaucrats show you under the excuse of security. Choose your own paths sometimes, and see the real roads that ordinary people travel on. When you visited my city, Alipur, I longed for you to see the rough routes where people’s backs literally break while traveling. Bring justice to the people-equal rights for all.
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