These were the observations of renowned economist Dr. Asad while speaking on a dialogue, Crisis of Competence, organised by Journalists Resource Centre at Press Club, on December 20, 1998.

Given the problems facing society, he said that people felt afflicted owing to the wrong policies of the government which has led to increasing inflation, poverty and devaluation of local currency. These factors combined have lessened the purchasing power of the common man and have evoked a sense of deprivation among the people. He said the country stands isolated on international political scenario because of the wrong policies and priorities of government and even the internal political conditions do not promise any good to the state. He said the Prime Minister of the country does not believe in democratic norms at all. It is an 'All the king's men' situation as the Prime Minister has planted his men at all the key posts. The President, the chiefs of the armed forces and chairman senate are all his men. Recent conflict between the government and the judiciary was in fact a resistance posed by the institution against this forcible take over.

He was of the opinion that the present government was monistic in nature and the western democratic states would not accept so-called democracy being followed here.

Dr. Asad said the government without feeling any sympathy towards the plight of people was busily engaged in taking a cutting edge in South Asian arm race. He said the incompetence of the Prime Minister and his fellows was a major factor which led to the deteriorating state of affairs. He said the educational level of the state-actors does not qualify them to hold the office. He said the government is full of people who have portrayed money as a virtue before the society and corruption is a natural outcome for promoting such values.

He said under the circumstances when the law and order situation is falling apart at the seams and violation of fundamental human rights is rampant, there is hardly any hope for changing things in a positive direction. More than forty journalists participated in this dialogue.