Why Do Pakistani Rulers Weaponize Islam for Politics?

Muhammad Asif Bhalli is a Sialkot-based senior lawyer, columnist, and commentator who has authored and compiled 14 books, mostly on the country's foundational identity. He was born on April 5, 1955. A steadfast proponent of the “Ideology of Pakistan,” the two-nation theory, and the Islamic system, he holds a singular perspective that combines a deep admiration for both Muhammad Ali Jinnah and Maulana Syed Abul A'la Maududi. He is known for expressing his strict anti-secular views through strongly worded columns and vlogs, including vocal but essentially one-sided critiques of secular-minded opinion leaders like Wajahat Masood. This interview marks a rare exception, following a long-standing pursuit to finally bring his deeply held convictions under critical, face-to-face scrutiny. The host of this show is grateful to Mr. Bhalli and hopes to continue such thought-provoking but respectful conversations, not only with him, but with all those who both agree and disagree with his perspectives. The host is not an uncritical admirer of any personality. He firmly believes in the spirit of these golden words: “I disapprove of what you say, but I will defend to the death your right to say it.” He is of the opinion that democracy cannot take root in Pakistan unless people start believing in a diversity of opinion and an unfettered freedom of expression. ************************************ Shakil Chaudhary is a journalist, author, and researcher. He is an alumnus of Government College, Lahore. He later studied International Relations at Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad, and Media and Communications at the London School of Economics. Over the years, he has worked for several leading English-language newspapers and a few other organizations. He is the author of “Handbook of Functional English.” These are some of his notable interviews: 👉 Sardar Masood Khan, former president, AJK, Part 1: https://youtu.be/h0jFAudsDuM 👉 Sardar Masood Khan, former president, AJK, Part 2: https://youtu.be/0esgmmI8XGE 👉 Ambassador Abdul Basit: https://youtu.be/qxWeiIzwskI 👉 Lt. Gen. Asad Durrani: https://youtu.be/x3mdfAklix0 👉 Shahid Siddiqui, a former member of India’s parliament: https://youtu.be/hRDiEe90z6Y You’re welcome to follow him on Facebook and Twitter. 👉 https://www.facebook.com/shakil.chaudhary/ 👉 https://x.com/ShakChaudhary