In a televised discussion on 92 News, senior journalist Mazhar Abbas raised concerns about the direction of Pakistan’s democratic framework, suggesting it increasingly mirrors the Chinese model rather than Western parliamentary traditions.
Speaking with anchorperson Rabia Ahsan, Abbas argued that in the system being followed today, the role of the opposition and the media appears diminished, with clear mechanisms in place to control both. He contrasted this with the Westminster model, where elected officials remain accountable to the public and the concept of lifelong immunity does not exist.
Abbas questioned why the president is being granted lifelong immunity, asking what justification supports such a move. He emphasized that in established democratic systems, accountability is central, and immunity for officeholders is not considered a norm.
His remarks highlight ongoing debates about governance, accountability, and the balance of power in Pakistan’s evolving political landscape.