I was fortunate enough to establish a direct contact with a key member of the party who gave me a patient hearing, and invited me to Lahore to visit the central office and meet some of the party members who were gathering for a meeting, prior to the start of the election process. I thought this would be a great opportunity to evaluate things first hand. I spent the first day with a couple of party members and was able to shadow them through the course of the day. I was encouraged by the positive reception they were given at many of the engagements, and a lot of the private sentiments of people were also revealing. People agreed with what they wanted to do, but again felt frustrated and helpless in that change occurring – a recurring sentiment. I also got to hear the party member’s internal concerns and obstacles they faced – despite which their commitment did not seem to waver. I suppose when you have a sincere belief that you are acting in a sincere manner you find the conviction to face the obstacles. The first day spent at party offices was an eye opener and rather encouraging. The following day the party meeting was held. Imran Khan chaired the meeting and key party representatives from all parts of the nation were present. A lot of interactive discussion was held and issues raised, resolved and identified. What seemed consistent throughout, in the meeting and in private discussions was optimism. Finally! These people, like me, also believed that things had to change, they could not continue as they were. That a great injustice was being inflicted on our nation and in particular the poor. They were sympathetic, most of all they were committed to doing something – whatever the outcome. This type of attitude was reflective of my own personal views. I felt comfortable – I was around people who also felt and thought what I did. I am sure there are specifics that people do differ on, but everyone was united on the agenda of positive social change, and our obligation to contribute especially to the “masses” – this was what was important. Additionally, the party members were educated, exposed and not by any means people who anyone could consider to be naïve. They understood that the challenges were significant – they were not delusional – the ground realities were understood and being dealt with. There were no airs and graces amongst the people, there was no strict protocol and stifling hierarchy, people expressed their views without fear of retribution. This type of open dialogue was refreshing.

I decided that this was a party I was comfortable with. The people were of a similar mind-set. The objectives were in line with my personal thinking. I could not think of any good reason, apart from apathy, not to join and start contributing. Tareek-i-insaaf was to be the party I would join and start on the road of politics. In terms of my involvement in politics, I am just talking about contribution. I do not expect to hold a key post, I do not expect to sit in an A/C’ed room and think about solutions and criticisms. I want to get my hands dirty and contribute to the overall aims and objectives. The objective is to serve the people, not the other way round.

On my flight back to Karachi, I thought about my experience and what had brought me to this decision. It was then that I decided that I should start a blog to document this experience. It would serve as a good means for me to examine my thought progress and also solicit feedback. This blog will not infringe on any confidentiality, nor reveal any private discussions or information entrusted with me. It will just be a account of my experiences and my thoughts, a means for me to evaluate the chosen course of action, and to serve as a means for enagaging those who may happen to stumble upon it. If you are one of them, then please let me know; What are your thoughts, comments, complaints, ideas, reservations, criticisms, observations, feedback, jokes!....anything…I would like to get a feel of things, are others thinking what I am thinking? What do you suggest? Criticize, complain, educate, entertain, whatever….don’t just sit there……