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Pakistan, October 21 — To grasp the dangers of extremism, the political path of Tehreek-e-Labbaik Pakistan serves as a comprehensive example.

In the 2018 general elections, TLP received 2.2 million votes solely from Punjab. If it had operated as a conventional political party, this substantial voter base could have positioned it as a major force in national politics. However, disorder, radicalism, and recklessness led it into a political quagmire, and it now risks being banned.

Throughout its history, TLP was unable to create any political or structural framework. It never interacted with other political groups, and mainstream parties did not consider it a significant entity. Its leaders were not involved in national discussions, did not hold press briefings, and seldom shared opinions on important national matters. The party’s sole noticeable action was to suddenly appear on the streets at random times, causing disruption to public life and hindering the country’s operations.

A true political party functions with a clear vision, specific goals, and targeted strategies. TLP lacked all of these. It never showed any interest in being seen as a credible political organization.

In Pakistan’s national structure, political authority is concentrated in Punjab. The province has more seats in the National Assembly than all other provinces together, making it the key determinant in national political decisions.

If proportional representation had been in place, TLP’s 2.2 million votes would have resulted in nine seats in the National Assembly and twenty-one in the provincial assembly in Punjab—a notable political presence. However, despite this, it managed to win no seats. No major party saw it as a viable candidate for seat exchanges or alliances, mainly because it was participating in its first election and lacked credibility.

The underlying problem, nevertheless, was that TLP never had a political nature. Its framework was not political, and its decision-making showed no indication of democratic approach or political vision. As a result, it wasted its opportunities and led society into a perilous environment of extremism, the effects of which still disturb the country.

Recent demonstrations highlight this pattern. For many months, as Palestine faced destruction, TLP stayed quiet. However, as soon as a peace deal was finalized in Sharm al-Sheikh, the group quickly initiated street protests in Pakistan. Naturally, this sparked doubts: was this an expression of support for Palestine or something different altogether?

These demonstrations occurred at a time of heightened tensions near the Afghan border, prompting many to question if the movement’s actions were driven from within or directed by outside entities. The lack of transparency in TLP’s decision-making process continues to be one of its most intriguing enigmas. No one is aware of how its internal procedures operate or who ultimately makes the decisions.

The routine has turned into a familiar cycle: a slogan is shouted, disorder ensues, and the nation grinds to a halt. This form of radicalism has affected not just TLP but also the broader structure of religious politics in Pakistan. If leaders involved in religious politics are sincere, they would understand how deeply this method has undermined their reputation and objectives.

The right to free speech and demonstration is protected by the constitution, yet when such protests disrupt the state and everyday life, they become harmful. The tactics employed by TLP have led both its supporters and the broader society into a deepening cycle of extremism, with effects that could impact Pakistan for many years ahead.

Some people think Pakistan’s long-held reputation as a “soft state” might finally be shifting towards a more confident and organized system. One can only wish this transformation is genuine and enduring.