In a recent discussion hosted by the National Press Foundation, former Singaporean diplomat Bilahari Kausikan reminisced about a tense moment during a plane hijacking involving former Pakistani Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto. Kausikan, who has had substantial experience in international diplomacy, recalled a phone call he made to Bhutto's residence amidst the crisis.

During the harrowing situation, Kausikan reached out in hopes of providing assistance. Upon his inquiry about Bhutto's well-being, he was informed, 'She's sleeping.' This statement highlighted the chaotic nature of the event and the challenges faced by Pakistani leadership during times of crisis.

Kausikan seized the opportunity to share his candid views on the political landscape of Pakistan. He described the country's politicians as a “waste of time,” asserting that their leadership has been a significant factor in the nation’s ongoing struggles. His remarks come at a time when Pakistan is facing severe economic and political turmoil.

“I don’t think you can blame your location on everything. That’s an excuse,” Kausikan stated, emphasizing that the roots of Pakistan's problems extend beyond external factors. He attributed much of the nation’s plight to decades of poor governance and mismanagement since its inception.

Furthermore, Kausikan criticized attempts by Pakistani politicians to deflect blame onto neighboring countries, arguing that such narratives do not address the core issues that contribute to the nation’s instability. “The military is both part of the problem and part of the solution,” he added, indicating the complex dynamics at play within the country.

The former diplomat's insights resonate against the backdrop of Pakistan’s current political climate, where calls for accountability and effective governance are louder than ever. As the country continues to grapple with its challenges, Kausikan’s observations offer a stark reminder of the long-standing issues that need to be addressed.

Kausikan’s experiences and perspectives reflect not just on the historical context of Pakistan’s political struggles but also serve as a cautionary tale for nations facing similar crises. His reflections urge a reevaluation of leadership effectiveness in the pursuit of national stability and progress.