The Facts
Following a suicide bombing at a political rally in the Bajaur district of Pakistan on Sunday, state-run rescue agency Bilal Faizi has confirmed that at least 45 people have died, with over 130 injured and 61 currently undergoing treatment.
At this time, no terrorist group has claimed responsibility for the actions of the individual, who detonated an explosives vest near the stage of several senior members of the Jamiat Ulema-e Islam-Fazl (JUI-F) party — a Pakistani government coalition partner.
The Spin
Narrative A
The bombing in Bajaur is yet another example of terrorism engulfing the war-ravaged region. Intelligence-sharing agreements must be signed with Afghanistan, and a comprehensive counter-terrorism strategy must be drawn up as an immediate priority. Now is a crucial time for Pakistan to respond — Islamabad cannot continue to sit back and let terrorists increasingly gain influence and strength.
Narrative B
Although more must be done to stem the continuing wave of terrorism in Pakistan, current attempts by the government to impose new legislation come at the expense of democratic principles. Meaningful dialogue and measures are necessary, but current broad and vaguely-worded provisions to target terrorists raise the potential for the government to abuse its power, violate individual freedoms, and restrict media access. Pakistan must find a balance between security and civil liberties.
