Zahid Hussain, an award-winning journalist and author, brings his decades-long experience in political reporting to A Dialogue with History, a riveting journey through some of the most defining political moments of recent history. Known for his in-depth coverage of Pakistan and Afghanistan for international publications such as The Times of London, The Wall Street Journal, Newsweek, and The Economist, Hussain has also held senior editorial positions at Newsline and Herald. His work reflects a deep understanding of geopolitical complexities, making this collection of forty interviews an essential read.
From the exiled Iranian President Bani Sadr to the revolutionary Massoud Rajavi, the book opens a window into the political turbulence of post-revolution Iran. Hussain’s meticulous detailing of these conversations offers an intimate look at the ideological disillusionment and shifting allegiances that followed the 1979 Iranian Revolution. His ability to extract raw, candid reflections from such figures adds to the book’s historical weight.
Equally compelling is his recounting of interviews with Pakistan’s towering political personalities. His interactions with Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan, Nawaz Sharif, and Pervez Musharraf paint a vivid picture of Pakistan’s tumultuous political landscape.
Particularly fascinating is his portrayal of Benazir Bhutto, whose separate book Face to Face with Benazir underscores her impact. Hussain’s ability to capture the mood of his subjects—whether it be a tense, uncertain Nawaz Sharif in 1988 or a candid and pragmatic Musharraf in the wake of 9/11—elevates these conversations from mere interviews to significant historical records.
His account of Rajiv Gandhi’s visit to Pakistan in 1988 is another highlight, encapsulating a rare moment of diplomatic optimism between two rival nations. The interview reflects the cautious yet hopeful outlook of a young Indian leader navigating complex Indo-Pakistani relations.
Beyond politics, Hussain ventures into diverse fields, bringing forward the voices of international figures such as Dr. Nafis Sadik, the Pakistani woman who rose to lead the United Nations Population Fund, and cricketing legend Imran Khan before his foray into politics. These conversations add layers to the book, offering perspectives beyond governance and diplomacy.
What makes A Dialogue with History stand out is Hussain’s journalistic rigor—his ability to probe deeply while maintaining an objective lens. His extensive experience and keen analytical mind lend the book credibility, while his narrative style ensures that it remains engaging rather than dryly archival.
The Asian Study Group’s Literature Club in Islamabad hosted a captivating session featuring Zahid Hussain in conversation with Ilona Yusuf. The discussion delved into his distinguished career and the influential figures he has interviewed.
At a time when history is often revised to fit political agendas, this collection serves as a critical reference, preserving firsthand accounts of historical events. Hussain, who has authored four books, including Frontline Pakistan, The Scorpion’s Tail, No Win War, and Face to Face with Benazir, writes regular columns for the English daily Dawn, offering expert analysis and perspectives. A Dialogue with History is a must-read for scholars, journalists, and anyone interested in the intersection of power, politics, and personal narratives. Through these dialogues, Hussain not only revisits history—he helps us understand it in its most unfiltered form.
