Adil Najam
I did not know that December 9 was the “International Anti-Corruption Day.” Nor that it would be observed in Pakistan along with Eid. I learnt this and saw this picture at Islamabad Metroblog, and didn’t really know how to react to it.
Yes, saying “No” will help. But maybe it will take a little more than just saying “No.”
On the other hand, there are plenty of reasons why we should observe the day “Anti-Corruption” day in Pakistan. Would’nt it be just wonderful if we observed it every day!
At the micro level, corruption in Pakistan has a lot to do with its social acceptability. People proudly tell stories about how they cheeted the system by giving a bribe or some such thing and others listen with amuzement instead of disapproval.
At the political level, the issue of corruption needs to be brought back to the top of the national agenda. The people need to express their strong disapproval for a corrupt government through all available means ranging from their votes to peaceful demonstrations.
At the institutional level, what we need is an independent judiciary (that’s where the restoration of Iftikhar Ch is important) and a constitutionally independent NAB that has the power to investigate and prosecute corruption cases against members of an incumbant government as well as the opposition. Again, it’s up to the people to ensure that no political party or government can survive if it does not try to develop these institutions.
Here is a youtube video worth checking
Zardari Corruption – Wah Gee Wah
You will never miss an opportunity to have a dig at Pakistan.You look inwards and you will find answer because you will find it plenty.You need help.
Call me cynical, but I think those in power will eventually resort to some form of corruption. The key to preventing corruption is to simply have power spread amongst groups that can maintain checks and balances on each other.
We certainly have a massive problem with it ourselves, but I don’t think we are somehow more naturally prone to it; the reason it is so pervasive in Pakistan is simply because power is vested in a few people, and not in institutions.
I’m sure many reading this blog have recently heard of how the governor of Illinois tried to sell the senate seat that Obama has left vacant; why would a man who is probably not in any sort of financial duress, would take such a stupid risk by committing a crime that is so easy to detect, is very hard to grasp, but we have it seen happen time and again.
Anyone care to ask who put up these banners in first place? who is our messiah?