Mamnoon Hussain: The Forgotten Conservative Hero

Mamnoon Hussain, the 12th President of Pakistan, was a man who stood for conservative values in a world that often seems to forget them. Born in Agra, India, in 1940, Hussain moved to Karachi, Pakistan, after the partition in 1947. He was a businessman turned politician who served as President from 2013 to 2018. His tenure was marked by a commitment to economic stability and national security, yet his legacy is often overshadowed by more flamboyant figures. Why? Because he wasn't interested in playing the media game or pandering to the liberal elite. Instead, he focused on what truly mattered: the prosperity and security of his nation.

Hussain was a member of the Pakistan Muslim League (N), a party known for its center-right stance. He was a staunch supporter of Nawaz Sharif, the party leader, and his economic policies. Under Hussain's presidency, Pakistan saw a period of economic growth, with GDP growth rates reaching over 5% in 2017. But you won't hear the mainstream media talking about that. They'd rather focus on personalities who make for better headlines, even if their policies lead to economic ruin.

One of Hussain's key achievements was his support for the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a massive infrastructure project aimed at boosting Pakistan's economy. While some critics argued that it increased Pakistan's debt, Hussain understood the long-term benefits of such investments. He knew that building roads, ports, and energy projects would create jobs and stimulate economic growth. But of course, the naysayers would rather see Pakistan remain stagnant than admit a conservative leader made a smart move.

Hussain also took a firm stance on national security. He supported military operations against terrorist groups in the tribal areas, which significantly reduced terrorist activities in the country. While some might argue that his approach was too heavy-handed, the results speak for themselves. Pakistan became a safer place under his watch, and that's something that should be celebrated, not criticized.

Despite his achievements, Hussain was often criticized for being a "ceremonial" president with little real power. But let's be honest, the role of the president in Pakistan is largely symbolic. The real power lies with the Prime Minister and the Parliament. Hussain understood this and chose to focus on supporting policies that would benefit the country rather than seeking personal glory. He was a team player, not a glory hound, and that's something we should admire.

Hussain's presidency was also marked by his commitment to preserving Pakistan's cultural and religious values. He was a vocal advocate for the protection of Pakistan's Islamic identity, which is something that resonates with many conservatives. In a world where traditional values are often under attack, Hussain stood firm in his beliefs and wasn't afraid to speak out.

So why is Mamnoon Hussain often forgotten in discussions about great leaders? Perhaps it's because he didn't fit the mold of what the media considers "newsworthy." He wasn't flashy or controversial; he was a steady hand guiding his country through challenging times. And maybe that's exactly what we need more of in today's world: leaders who prioritize substance over style, who focus on results rather than rhetoric.

Mamnoon Hussain may not have been the most talked-about president, but his contributions to Pakistan's economic growth and national security are undeniable. He was a conservative hero who understood the importance of stability and tradition in a rapidly changing world. It's time we give him the recognition he deserves.