GR EEK philosopher Aristotle rightly said that the basis of a democratic state is liberty. Democracy currently the most prevalent form of government in the world in which people have a say in the legislation process is supposed to guide a nation to correct, f ruitful decisions through healthy debates and discussions.

These discussions, however, become futile when we fail to tolerate dif ference of opinion, which is a fundamental principle of true democracies. Therefore, although the role of state institutions in safeguarding democratic norms cannot be denied, the primary onus is always on political forces to promote a true democratic culture in society.

It has been customary for elected governments around the world to hit a stalemate every now and then, but then amicable solutions are brought to the table through meaningful dialogue and negotiations. All these measures become counterproductive when political discourse is overwhelmed by demeaning and insulting tactics instead of ethical, moral andlogicalreasoning.

Political leaders in a true democracy are cherished for their integrity, vision and service to their nations. However, it is unfortunate that in our case, the public tends to portray its leaders as `flawless heroes` who should be considered above criticism by one and all, including those who happen to disagree with them.

In civilised societies, debates are encouraged in the media and on other platforms to help the general public form an opinion and subsequently express it through the power of the vote. On the contrary, character assassination and below-the-belt tactics are preferred over debates and constructive criticism in countries like Pakistan, putting the very social fabric at stake.

Pakistan is currently going through several crises monsoon devastations, a steep fall in the rupee`s value, soaring inflation, and political turmoil that have shakenthe countrytothe core.Thereis a palpable sense of financial insecurity and restlessness in society. If they continue unabated, these crises may lead to serious chaos. We need urgent, concrete measures to come out of the quagmire. But we have not even begun to work to that end.As if our economic woes were not enough, a political tug of war has also ignited the sentiments of enmity, intolerance and violence in every nook and corner of the country. People have become shorttempered and the threshold for brawls has markedly decreased. Deteriorating law and order, as evidenced by a rising crime rate, has also aggravated the problem.

Those running the show need to realise that political stability is critical to economic activity and prosperity and ensuring a peaceful environment. Moral indicators of society are also going downhill, with every other day dawning with a new low.

Incidents devoid of humanity have become rife, contaminating a major part of media coverage, thus jeopardising the future of coming generations.

Black marketing, hoarding, adulteration and corruption are other social evils that are detrimental to the very foundations of the country. Even social media, otherwise supposed to be representing a somewhat educated population, paints a grim picture.

It is high time political forces sat together and settled their dif ferences.

Leaders must promote tolerance and decency and become role models for their followers instead of locking horns every now and then over petty things.

At the same time, we need a strong and independent judicial system, without which dreaming of peace and prosperity is like building castles in the air.

At the grassroots level, parents also need to play their role. Together with educationalinstitutions,they caninculcate intellect and morality in the children and help them become beneficial for the country`s future.

To sum it up, we must adopt a national approach to set the country on the road to prosperity. The clock is ticking, mind you.

Dr Faisal Gorchani Dera Ghazi Khan