Global Politicians vs. Pakistan’s Elite

Asem Mustafa Awan

Islamabad: In the realm of global leadership, humility is often the hallmark of those who leave a lasting impact. The actions of leaders like British Prime Minister Keir Starmer and Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte provide a striking contrast to the self-serving attitude observed in many political figures around the world, particularly in Pakistan.

These leaders have demonstrated that true leadership is not about privilege or pomp but about setting an example for others to follow.

Consider the recent image of Keir Starmer, the British Prime Minister, holding a simple snack of crisps and fruit salad between meetings. He demonstrates that even at the helm of one of the world’s most influential governments, humility and simplicity remain integral to his character.

Similarly, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte, mopping up coffee he spilled while entering his office, exemplifies a leader who does not see himself above such mundane tasks. In his 14 years in office, Rutte was often seen riding a bicycle to work, a testament to his humble approach to leadership and governance.

These gestures, though small, have left an indelible mark on the public’s perception of these leaders. People worldwide admire and idolize such examples of humility, which stand in sharp contrast to the behavior of many leaders in other parts of the world. In Pakistan, for instance, the disconnect between the people and their leaders is profound. The pervasive culture of entitlement and privilege among the political elite has led to a chasm of mistrust and frustration.

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In Pakistan, the concept of “protocol” has taken on a life of its own, often at the cost of the public’s well-being. The sight of motorcades blocking roads, causing massive traffic jams, and sometimes even resulting in tragic incidents, is a common occurrence. Stories of women giving birth on the roadside due to traffic delays caused by these protocols are not rare.

These incidents starkly illustrate how the privileges enjoyed by the elite come at the expense of ordinary citizens. The grip of this elite class on the country is so tight that it seems impossible for the common person to live without constant obstacles.

The “elite capture” has a stranglehold on Pakistan’s progress and prosperity. The daily lives of ordinary Pakistanis are marred by delays, blockages, and bureaucratic red tape, while the ruling elite glide through life in their motorcades, rarely aware of the struggles of those they are supposed to represent.

The security protocols, ostensibly put in place for safety, have resulted in numerous accidents and fatalities. While there are no official statistics on how many lives have been lost due to these motorcades, anecdotal evidence points to a grim reality: ordinary citizens often pay the ultimate price for the privilege of a few.

In stark contrast, leaders like Keir Starmer and Mark Rutte do not hide behind their positions. The images of these leaders carrying their own lunch or cleaning up after themselves resonate with the public. These actions are not mere publicity stunts but genuine reflections of their character and commitment to public service. In doing so, they set an example that transcends political affiliations and earns them respect from all quarters.

The British Prime Minister, for instance, was seen carrying his takeaway lunch while rushing between meetings. This simple act spoke volumes about his dedication and humility, as he chose to manage his time and tasks without relying on a coterie of aides or an extravagant entourage.

Similarly, the Dutch Prime Minister’s use of a bicycle for commuting even after 14 years in office demonstrates a commitment to simplicity and accessibility.

In Pakistan, however, leaders often seem more interested in maintaining an air of superiority and grandeur. Their lifestyles, marked by opulence and allegations of corruption, suggest a detachment from the very people they claim to serve.

Their conduct is such that it could make even the most self-aggrandizing rulers of history appear modest by comparison. These leaders are often surrounded by sycophants who reinforce their sense of importance, further disconnecting them from the realities faced by ordinary citizens.

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This stark difference in leadership styles and attitudes creates a negative perception of Pakistani politicians. The lavish lifestyles, disregard for public inconvenience, and frequent displays of authority only serve to widen the gap between the rulers and the ruled.

While the leaders of countries like the UK and the Netherlands gain admiration for their humility and down-to-earth behavior, Pakistani leaders are viewed with skepticism and distrust.

True democracy and leadership are characterized by humility, simplicity, and genuine service to the public. Leaders like Keir Starmer and Mark Rutte exemplify these values, demonstrating that leadership is about more than just power and authority. 

Their actions are a call to other leaders to rethink their approach to governance, to abandon the trappings of power, and to connect more genuinely with the people they serve.

In contrast, the Pakistani political landscape is dominated by a culture of entitlement and excess. The public’s faith in their leaders has eroded due to a persistent lack of humility and accountability. To win back the trust of the masses, Pakistani leaders must adopt a new style of politics — one that emphasizes service over self-interest, humility over hubris, and genuine engagement with the public over mere symbolism.

Leadership is not about titles or positions; it is about action, character, and connection. When leaders embody humility and selflessness, as seen in Britain and the Netherlands, they gain not just the votes of their citizens, but their respect and admiration as well.

It is time for Pakistani leaders to learn from these examples and redefine their approach to leadership, moving towards a model that is truly for the people and by the people.

Asem Mustafa Awan has extensive reporting experience with leading national and international media organizations. He has also contributed to reference books such as the Alpine Journal and the American Alpine Journal, among other international publications.

Photo Credit: Getty Images