Politics-crime nexus

For a state to function it is mandatory to implement laws without discrimination through an effective system of ‘reward and punishment’. Other than mere pep talk, ground realities point to the bitter truth that the nexus between political power-holders and organised crime continues to flourish in this unfortunate country.
Massive tax evasion and defiant flight of capital from the country continue to erode this nation from within. A country plagued by terrorism cannot afford to turn a blind eye to money laundering. It should be seen exploiting all existing avenues for tax collection to raise enough finances to invest in education, health, the provision of basic necessities and law enforcement. The high-profile incident of Ayyan Ali, who was caught red-handed while attempting to smuggle out half-a-million dollars at the Islamabad airport is a case in point. Even the FBR is not willing to prosecute her under Section 192-A of the Income Tax Ordinance 2001. As long as this nexus between political power stakeholders and crime exists we will continue to be victims of terrorism, economic bleeding and a weakening state sovereignty to the delight of our known enemies.
Malik T Ali
Lahore