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Who won?

On 16th March, right before Navrouz when the Persian world has traditionally celebrated the advent of spring, Pakistanis wrote a new chapter. We are told that it is an unprecedented event. It is as uncommon an event as laying off, so to speak, of a head of Justice in a country. What was done has now been-hopefully-undone. Whether it is the advent of Spring after a long drawn winter is yet to be seen. For now, we celebrate, in the hope of a new season.


Among others two things are foremost on my mind. One, since I live in USA presently, it is inevitable that I try to fathom US's reaction to events in Pakistan. During the Long March there were many reports coming from US regarding their interest in our events, firstly it was reported that US Joint Chiefs of Staff had persuaded our General Kiyani, like a little child is persuaded, to refrain from taking over like his predecessors, then we had reports that Madam Clinton had warned Mr. Zardari and Mr. Sharif that if they did not settle their differences aid to Pakistan might become a question mark. So it was after all a 'deal' made in US and Pakistani people have no right to take credit for this sweeping and unprecedented victory! Or is it a case on the part of US to take undue credit for something which after a long long time has the blessing of 'janta' in Pakistan. An effort to become 'popular', maybe.


Secondly, Pakistani people are made to believe that they do not have any voice or sway in determining the destiny of their country. The common people coming out in huge numbers and many more waiting to join the Long March are to believe, post 16th March, that it was after all the US intervention that convinced Mr. Prime Minister! In one sweeping statement US has taken our faith from under our feet and put it out to give a good beating to clear it of any dust of misperception! Bravo!!

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