2 weeks Ago
The Prime Minister was informed on Thursday that not a single case of polio has been reported in Pakistan since February 10th—a development attributed to the recent nationwide anti-polio campaigns. While this was met with praise during the cabinet meeting, such milestones should be treated not as occasions for self-congratulation but as reminders of the long road still ahead. A brief pause in reported cases, following months of alarming resurgence, is not a victory—it is the bare minimum.
It is proof that eradication is possible, and therefore, must be pursued with renewed urgency. Pakistan remains one of only two countries in the world—alongside Afghanistan—where polio is still endemic. This is a source of national shame.
For a country that aspires to regional leadership, both economically and militarily, the continued presence of a preventable disease within its borders undermines every other achievement. Labour colonies’ issues to be resolved soon: PA speaker The situation has, in fact, deteriorated sharply during the current tenure. Where only a handful of polio cases were reported in previous years, 2024 has already seen a disturbing spike: 74 cases.
These are not numbers to ignore—they are a clear indictment of inconsistent efforts and inadequate follow-through. Yet, the recent success since February 10th shows that it is possible to carry out a safe and effective polio campaign—when the highest levels of government are involved. That this required the personal intervention of the Prime Minister speaks volumes about the gaps in the system.
It is not ability that is lacking—it is political will and sustained commitment. Now that the Prime Minister is personally overseeing the effort, there is hope that Pakistan might finally be able to break free from the stigma of polio. Tags: bare minimum.
