I have been visiting Dubai once or twice every year since 2016. I highly
regard the efficiency of the police, the doctors, the event managers and the
RTA. Obviously, the system here works so well because of the dedication and
sincerity of the people at the helm of affairs. However, the magnanimity of the
Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, surpasses my
imagination. It leaves me spellbound.
It is natural to dislike one's critics. People in power and their sycophants
are often found shouting down voices of dissent. They beat up protestors, put
them behind bars, murder them, and even pass laws to ensure that all cries of
dissent are maimed. Sycophancy and instinct for survival propel people to eulogise
those in power and silence the detractors.
But when a radio show host recently mocked Al Mazrouei, a 57-year old
Emirati finding it difficult to survive, the host would not have thought in his
wildest dreams that he would be suspended for his act. In most countries his
punishment would have been considered sufficient to close the chapter and sweep
the matter under the carpet. But things work differently in Dubai. Not only the
grievances of this ailing father of nine children have been attended to within
a week, but he has been appointed as a social researcher at the Ministry of
Community Development to continue being the voice of the ignored segments. Al
Mazrouei was also honoured as an invitee to the cabinet meeting. He walked next
to Shaikh Mohammad at the Presidential Palace for the meeting, at which a total
of Dh11b for social assistance was approved without dilly-dallying. If the catchphrase,
'minimum government
and maximum governance' proves true anywhere, it is here, at Dubai!
संदेश
