How elite privileges impact governance in Pakistan

LAHORE: The extravagant lifestyle of Pakistan’s ruling elite and top bureaucracy, funded by state resources, remains a long-debated issue. Lavish perks, subsidised housing, costly foreign trips and extensive protocol expenses frequently draw criticism, especially in a country grappling with economic crises and widespread poverty.

Critics argue that such indulgence not only burdens public finances but also creates a disconnect between the rulers and the realities faced by ordinary citizens. In Pakistan, the gap between the ruling elite and the public is vast, often resulting in poorly informed policymaking and growing public resentment. By contrast, countries with modest bureaucracies and ruling elites generally exhibit better governance, as their leaders remain connected to the challenges of their citizens. For Pakistan to progress, it is essential to reduce elite privileges and enforce stricter accountability in public spending.

When ruling elites lead lives of excessive comfort -- far removed from the struggles of the average citizen -- they risk losing touch with everyday challenges such as inflation, unemployment, healthcare and education. Policies designed in such isolation often benefit the elite disproportionately, while ordinary citizens bear the brunt of taxation, price hikes and inadequate public services.

In contrast, several countries have systems where rulers and bureaucrats share the hardships of the people. For instance, in Scandinavian countries like Norway, Sweden and Denmark, politicians lead relatively simple lives, use public transport and avoid extravagant state-funded luxuries. Taxpayer money is prioritised for social welfare rather than political privileges.

In Singapore, although bureaucrats and politicians receive high salaries, they are held to strict accountability standards, deliver efficient governance and maintain a low level of corruption. Similarly, in Vietnam and China, top leaders enjoy privileges but are discouraged from ostentatious displays of wealth. Anti-corruption efforts in both countries have led to punitive actions against excessive lifestyles.

Even in Cuba, despite flaws in its system, its leaders have historically lived frugally, though ordinary citizens still face significant economic struggles.

In South Asia, India’s bureaucrats and politicians enjoy perks like government housing, official vehicles and security. However, there have been efforts to curb excessive spending. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and some state chief ministers have promoted austerity, reducing discretionary expenses. While corruption and misuse of power persist, public scrutiny and media pressure have introduced some level of accountability.

In Bangladesh, politicians and bureaucrats also enjoy privileges, albeit on a smaller scale compared to Pakistan. While corruption remains a significant issue, state-sponsored luxuries for high-ranking officials are less extravagant. Public opinion plays a critical role, with officials occasionally pressured to justify their benefits.

Iran provides a mixed picture. Its ruling class, especially the clerical elite, enjoys privileges, but their lifestyles are relatively modest compared to Gulf monarchies or South Asian elites. Although economic sanctions have forced frugality among officials, the divide between the elite and ordinary citizens remains less pronounced than in Pakistan.