Imran Khan and Bhutto Compared, Journalists Exchange Sharp Words

Veteran columnist Suhail Warraich shared a reflection on X concerning the incarceration of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. He noted that Bhutto suffered from severe dental issues during his final days and repeatedly requested his dentist, Dr. Niazi. According to Warraich, this request was consistently denied by the authorities at the time.

Warraich drew a parallel between Bhutto’s past and the current situation of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. He observed an irony in history where Bhutto once sought a doctor named Niazi, while today a patient named Niazi is reportedly suffering from an eye ailment in prison. This comparison aimed to highlight the recurring nature of political irony in Pakistan.

Journalist Matiullah Jan responded to the post with a strong critique of Warraich’s narrative style. Jan argued that such historical references serve to trivialize the tragedies and injustices occurring in the present day. He expressed concern that comparing current hardships to past atrocities minimizes the responsibility of incumbent rulers and sanitizes modern transgressions.

The exchange has triggered a broader conversation regarding the role of journalists in documenting political history. While some readers view Warraich’s approach as providing necessary context, others agree with Jan that it can dilute the urgency of current accountability. The discussion underscores the deep ideological divide in how media figures interpret political suffering and state authority.