Khawaja Saad Rafique Warns Against Populism, Political Hatred and State Repression
LAHORE: Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) leader Khawaja Saad Rafique has warned that emotional slogans, character assassination of political opponents, hate-filled allegations, and the exploitation of public sentiments may bring temporary political success but ultimately lead to collective failure and national damage.
In a statement posted on X, Rafique said that unrealistic demands, ruthless attacks on opponents, and the use of national interests and public rights as tools for political mobilization create short-term gains but carry serious long-term consequences.
He argued that fascist tendencies cannot be countered with more fascism. Instead, he said, the solution lies in the impartial implementation of the law in its true spirit and the provision of clear and unbiased justice.
Rafique further stated that state repression may temporarily suppress public emotions, but unresolved grievances continue to smolder beneath the surface and can eventually erupt with greater intensity.
The senior PML-N leader maintained that both populist politics built on falsehoods and excessive state coercion weaken the foundations of society, fostering hatred, bitterness, and deep divisions among citizens. According to him, such trends can ultimately result in the decline, fragmentation, or even collapse of states.
Referring to the separation of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh, Rafique described the fall of Dhaka as a national tragedy of historic proportions. He lamented that despite the passage of more than half a century, the lessons of that event have not been fully learned.
His remarks come amid ongoing political debates over governance, democratic rights, political polarization, and the role of state institutions in Pakistan.
