KARACHI: Pro-people politics is the only way forward for Pakistan, according to Altaf Shakoor, Chairman of the Pasban Democratic Party (PDP). Commenting on recent political developments in South Asia, Shakoor emphasized the need for a shift in Pakistan's political landscape, which has long been dominated by elite-driven power struggles.

According to Pasban Democratic Party, the country's current challenges, including economic hardship, climate disasters, and limited civic space, necessitate a move towards politics that prioritizes the welfare of ordinary citizens. Shakoor highlighted the PDP, formerly known as Pasban, as a model for such a movement, akin to the Cockroach Janta Party in India, though unrelated.

Shakoor criticized the existing political model in Pakistan, marked by dynastic rivalries and a focus on regime security, which he argued has left millions of citizens behind. He called for a paradigm shift towards economic justice, advocating for policies that ensure living wages, affordable food, and progressive taxation, while rejecting the privatization of essential services.

He stressed the importance of transparency and accountability, asserting that access to information is a fundamental right. Shakoor also highlighted the need for universal social security and policies to combat inflation and unemployment, urging rights groups and political parties to act as watchdogs and champions of anti-corruption.

Shakoor argued for the inclusion of marginalized communities in governance, emphasizing the importance of internal democracy within political parties. He called for coalitions between civil society organizations and political parties to promote voter education, hold parties accountable, and mobilize communities to demand their rights.

He concluded by stating that pro-people politics is not just the responsibility of activists or politicians but a duty for every citizen. He called on the people of Pakistan to organize at the grassroots level and demand commitments to pro-people platforms from candidates, emphasizing that this approach is essential for a just and democratic Pakistan.