Why Pakistan’s Future Lies in Ruins: A Youth Betrayed by Dynastic Greed

Pakistan, a nation born out of hope and the dreams of its people, stands at the edge of an abyss. Its youth, once envisioned as the driving force of prosperity and innovation, are now burdened by despair, disillusionment, and the oppressive weight of a political system hijacked by dynastic greed. This betrayal is not a sudden occurrence; it is the cumulative result of decades of exploitation by feudal lords, military doctrines, and political families who treat the nation like their inheritance.

In this exploration, we’ll delve into how dynastic politics, entrenched feudalism, and unchecked military dominance have robbed Pakistan’s youth of opportunities, pushed them toward despair, and left the country teetering on the brink of collapse.

Dynasties in Power: The Root of Pakistan’s Misery

Pakistan’s political arena is dominated by a handful of families who have held power for generations. These dynasties—Bhuttos, Zardaris, and Sharifs—operate not as public servants but as self-serving oligarchs, manipulating the nation’s institutions for personal gain.

• The Bhutto-Zardari Legacy: Once hailed as the voice of the working class, the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) under Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto promised equality and empowerment. However, this vision was reduced to hollow rhetoric as the family amassed immense wealth while the people of Sindh languished in poverty. Benazir Bhutto, and later Asif Ali Zardari, perpetuated this cycle, using public office to expand their private fortunes. Today, the party remains a shadow of its former self, symbolising corruption and inefficiency.
• The Sharif Dynasty: The Sharifs, spearheaded by Nawaz Sharif and Shehbaz Sharif, present themselves as champions of development. Yet their tenure is marked by crony capitalism, nepotism, and economic mismanagement. Lavish projects like motorways and metro trains mask deeper economic woes—rampant unemployment, skyrocketing debt, and crippling inflation. Meanwhile, Maryam Nawaz, a political novice, is being groomed to carry forward this dynastic baton.

These families have turned governance into a family affair, ignoring merit and sidelining the nation’s brightest minds. Instead of fostering an environment of opportunity, they have erected barriers, ensuring only their progeny inherit the reins of power.

Feudalism: A System of Oppression

Feudalism is another deeply entrenched plague on Pakistan. Vast swathes of the population, particularly in rural areas, remain under the control of feudal lords who exploit them for political and financial gain. These landlords, many of whom are also part of the political elite, perpetuate illiteracy, poverty, and social inequality to maintain their dominance.

For the youth born into these areas, life is a cycle of servitude with no escape. Education, healthcare, and economic mobility are luxuries reserved for the elite. The feudal system ensures that the majority remain trapped in poverty, with no chance to break free or contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress.

The Military's Role: Guardians Turned Predators

The military, which should act as a protector of national sovereignty, has instead become a significant contributor to Pakistan’s plight. With unchecked power and influence, it controls vast sectors of the economy, including real estate, industries, and media. Its doctrine prioritises its own survival and expansion over national welfare.

This militarisation of resources has stifled entrepreneurship and innovation, as the private sector struggles under the shadow of military-owned conglomerates. For the youth, this means fewer opportunities in a shrinking job market dominated by nepotism and institutional corruption.

The Economic Collapse: Who Pays the Price?

Pakistan’s economy is in freefall, and its youth are paying the price. Over two million people leave the country annually, seeking opportunities abroad because their homeland offers none. The reasons are clear:

• Inflation: The cost of living has skyrocketed, leaving even basic necessities out of reach for many.
• Unemployment: Skilled professionals, including MBA and MS graduates, are offered salaries barely above those of unskilled labourers.
• Brain Drain: Talented individuals are fleeing in droves, unwilling to waste their potential in a system that rewards connections over competence.

While the elite secure cushy government contracts and overseas investments, the middle and lower classes are crushed under taxes, rising fuel prices, and stagnant wages.

The Human Cost: Youth in Crisis

The consequences of this systemic betrayal are devastating. The youth of Pakistan face an epidemic of:

1. Depression and Mental Illness: Unrelenting financial pressure and a lack of prospects drive young people to despair. Suicide rates are climbing as hopelessness becomes the norm.
2. Drug Abuse: With no constructive outlets for their energy and creativity, many turn to substance abuse as an escape.
3. Social Chaos: Frustration and anger are spilling into society, manifesting as violence, crime, and political apathy.

A Nation of Elites: The Monopoly of Wealth

Pakistan’s economic activity is increasingly concentrated in real estate, construction, and groceries—all industries dominated by elites, political families, or the military. This monopoly chokes off opportunities for small businesses, industrialists, and entrepreneurs, discouraging investment in sectors that could generate jobs and innovation.

Factories close while shopping malls flourish. Industries decline while housing societies expand. This imbalance reflects a country run not for its people but for its rulers.

The Way Forward: Breaking the Chains

Pakistan’s future depends on breaking free from the shackles of dynastic politics, feudal oppression, and military overreach. This requires:

• Empowering the Youth: Education, job creation, and mental health support must become national priorities.
• Rejecting Dynasties: The public must demand an end to nepotism, ensuring leadership is based on merit, not family ties.
• Strengthening Institutions: Corruption must be eradicated, and institutions must operate independently of political and military interference.

The time for complacency is over. The youth must rise as a collective force, rejecting the status quo and demanding the future they deserve.

Conclusion: A Betrayed Generation, A Broken Nation

Pakistan’s youth stand at a crossroads. Betrayed by dynastic greed, stifled by feudalism, and crushed under a militarised economy, they face an uncertain future. Yet, within this despair lies the potential for change. By rejecting the systems that oppress them, Pakistan’s youth can reclaim their future and chart a new course for their nation.

#EndNepotism #SavePakistan #YouthEmpowerment #MeritOverGreed

Credits

This article, "Why Pakistan’s Future Lies in Ruins: A Youth Betrayed by Dynastic Greed," has been thoughtfully designed and composed with the support and guidance of various individuals who shared their insights, expertise, and valuable input throughout the process.

Special thanks to:

• Syed Salman Mehdi Mosvi – for the vision and leadership in crafting the narrative and highlighting the struggles of Pakistan’s youth.
• Maaha Arain – for their technical advice, editorial assistance, and perspective that enhanced the depth of the article.
• Syed Hina Zehra Kazmi – for their ongoing support in helping to shape this important message.

This collaborative effort aims to shed light on the reality that Pakistan's youth faces, driven by dynastic greed and systemic inequality, and to advocate for the change that is urgently needed.

#Gratitude #CollaborativeEffort #PakistaniYouth #SyedSalmanMehdi