Uncertainty of democratic system has bearing on country: Rabbani

ISLAMABAD: Senate Chairman Mian Raza Rabbani said on Sunday when sword of Damocles hangs over the democratic system, its effects are not only seen on Parliament but also are visible all over the country.

However, on an optimistic note, he said that despite all the odds, Parliament would complete its term. Rabbani expressed these views while addressing the inaugural session of the Summit of All Pakistan Women Chambers of Commerce and Industry, being organised under the auspices of Rawalpindi Chamber of Commerce and Industries (RCCI) and Islamabad Chamber of Commerce and Industries (ICCI).

Senate chairman statement of optimism comes on the heels of remarks of caution by NA Speaker Sardar Ayaz Sadiq that the assemblies might not complete their mandated term.

Rabbani said that the country could not move forward unless there was rule of law and uniform system of governance and accountability for all the segments of the society.

“If there is no rule of law, the system cannot sustain which means no economic development and social prosperity in the country,” Rabbani cautioned amid speculations that the system might last for another couple of months.

The business community, he emphasised, must be consulted during the process of making budget proposals by the parliamentary committees, however, he lamented that Parliament has also the complaints that the executive does not consult it on the national issues.

“I have always called for and respected the collective decision making as it is the best tool to make correct decisions and the individual decisions are never a replacement for collective decision making process,” Senate chairman contended.

He said that the country has experienced the democratic rule in intervals and while the dictatorial regimes interrupted the democratic system every ten years and for long periods of time.

Rabbani acknowledged the fact that women were more than half of the population and playing an active role in different spheres of life. He said that extending more opportunities to the women in the political process would pave the way for their active participation in the efforts of economic stability and revival.

He said that the nations face difficulties and inertia but the democratic process must continue so that the national development and economic prosperity is not hampered. Rabbani said that all the relevant organisations must play their role in reviving the confidence of the business community and facilitating them for promoting the economic activity in the country.