ISLAMABAD: The first time these street performers appeared was several years ago on intersections that were busy in Islamabad. They had their bodies completely covered with paint golden color, stood still; the shiny canes they leant on and top hats they had on, were always left open. Perhaps if it had been another place, the sight of an occasional mime trying to make a dime would pass unnoticed. However, this is Pakistan where things under security state are often not what they appear to be. As such as the number of gold people increased so did the aura of mystery around them. Could they be informers for intelligence? What about sentinels for influential politicians? Or probably CIA agents?
The “Golden Men” of Islamabad, today added to the plethora of conspiracy theories sprouting, getting knocked down and reborn every day across town. Conspiracy theories have thrived in Pakistan’s mainstream where security agencies are seen everywhere for many decades now. Widespread suspicion means the wildest tales proliferate after almost any news event.In 2010, people argued that catastrophic floods had been caused by weather control technology used by CIA. Media pundits claimed that a failed car bombing by a Pakistani-American in Times Square in 2010 was organized by US “thinktank”, and Osama bin Laden was actually Jewish.
In such a climate, everyone – even street performers – can be seen as potential tools of the state. For most of Pakistan’s 76-year history listening was just a part of everyday life.”With political atmosphere so polarised we are becoming more suspicious about who is watching us or who is listening,” said Ali Abas, 25 year old resident from Islamabad.
At the other end of town Mustaq Ahmed (53), stood at a median strip on a busy road junction.His jacket, pants walking cane and top hat were all painted gold as well.Gold coloured makeup cake his face and hand.Three years ago, Ahmed used to sell umbrellas until he overheard another golden man saying he made up to Pak Rs 8,000 – or nearly $30 – every day. That was more than five times what Ahmed took home. Recently, this money has been decreasing as the novelty of the golden men wore off, he said. “Will you ever do a bit of side work for intelligence agencies?” he was asked in terms of his income. He quickly replied, “no no no.” Could other golden mean be making some extra dollars like that? “May be,”he shrugged his shoulders and said, “ its Pakistan.”
