ISLAMABAD: Ahmed Raza Khan Qasuri, a renowned Pakistani politician and lawyer, shared his journey and insights in an in-depth interview with The Public Purview. Born into a prominent family, Qasuri is the son of Nawab Muhammad Ahmed Khan and the grandson of Khan Bahadar Sardar Sher Baz Khan. His family has a long-standing history of political and social contributions to the country. He now stands as a member of the All Pakistan Muslim League, led by the late General Pervez Musharraf.
During the interview, Qasuri emphasized his deep love and connection with Pakistan, describing how he had sacrificed his father for the country. His introduction was simple yet powerful: “I am Pakistani, I am Muslim, and I love this country.” This sentiment echoed throughout the conversation as he talked about his upbringing and the influence of his family.
Growing up in a family with a rich legacy, Qasuri attributes much of his personal and political strength to his mother. She played a pivotal role in shaping his career path, steering him away from civil service and toward public life. While he excelled academically and had the potential for a prestigious civil service career, his mother’s desire for him to engage in public life pushed him toward politics.
Qasuri shared anecdotes about his father’s friendly nature and the role he played in his upbringing. His father believed in educating his children by exposing them to various social settings, allowing them to observe and learn. This unique upbringing, combined with the influence of his mother, helped him develop a strong personality and a deep understanding of the world around him.
Discussing the challenges and privileges of being born into a wealthy and influential family, Qasuri acknowledged the advantages but also highlighted the revolutionary spirit of his mother. She ensured that her children were grounded and connected to the common people, despite their privileged background. She sent them to regular schools instead of elite institutions, which helped them develop empathy and understanding of the struggles faced by ordinary citizens.
Qasuri’s political career began during his student years, where he became a prominent student leader. In 1963, he led a significant protest against the then-President Ayub Khan, raising the first voice for democracy in Pakistan. This protest, sparked by the controversial University Ordinance, became a defining moment in his life. Despite facing imprisonment and other challenges, Qasuri’s determination and leadership skills earned him recognition across the country.
In the interview, Qasuri also touched upon the complex relationship between the military and democracy in Pakistan. He believes that political instability and the incompetence of politicians often pave the way for military interventions. According to him, when the state’s survival is at stake, the military steps in to restore order, even if it means sidelining the constitution temporarily.
Reflecting on his relationship with General Pervez Musharraf, Qasuri clarified that his support for Musharraf was not based on personal or political gain but on principle. He defended Musharraf during his trial, believing that the charges against him were unjust. Qasuri takes pride in having played a role in preventing Musharraf from being hanged by defending him in court and raising awareness of the situation within the military.
The interview concluded with a discussion about the Kargil conflict, in which Qasuri recounted a conversation he had with Musharraf. According to Qasuri, Musharraf had briefed then-Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif about the situation, but Sharif’s lack of understanding and leadership led to the failure of the operation.
Ahmed Raza Qasuri’s interview sheds light on his remarkable journey, from a student leader advocating for democracy to becoming a key player in Pakistan’s legal and political landscape. His insights into the dynamics between politics, the military, and leadership in Pakistan offer valuable lessons for the country’s future.
