How to govern

This refers to the article, ‘A new paradigm of governance’ (July 27) by Syed Mohibullah Shah. The article was a candid analysis of the mediocre style of governance confronting our nation. It is unfortunate the way so much time and resources have been spent trying to choose the ‘ideal style of governance’ for Pakistan. Governance is a multi-fold issue, encompassing the executive, legislature and the bureaucracy. For instance, for critical subjects like health or infrastructure development, can we pinpoint exactly who is responsible for what and what are the minimum standards that should be achieved respectively by the federal, provincial and district authorities?

The learned writer goes on to state the tough rules that prevail in a society with ideal governing values – Japan. It is an interesting fact that the prime minister of Japan has no discretionary funds to allocate; he/she has no power to approve funds at their own discretion. The writer is correct in observing that a ‘new paradigm of governance is needed’, one that incorporates time, responsibility, efficiency, meritocracy and value-for-money. A more able class of politicians, with adequate modern education in and exposure to ideal governing societies plus a strictly merit-oriented, incorruptible civil service can help ensure this transition to ‘progressive governance’. Governance must always remain in the ‘public realm’; it cannot be privatised. Lastly, a change in the attitude of the people can lead to a change in the attitude of the governing managers.

Abbas R Siddiqi

Lahore