Portrait of misrule

Transparency International’s announcement that Pakistan has slipped from 117 to 120 out of 180 nations has caused a stir in media and political circles. To start with, the PM himself, perhaps on ill advice or lack of political acumen, continues to harp on about the rampant corruption he has inherited from previous governments. Just like his predecessors, whose cabinet was dominated by cronies, involved in scandalous ventures, the PM has too many friends exercising a lot of clout. In fact, governance has become poorer in provinces where PTI-led coalitions hold power.

Crop yields have decreased because green agriculture land has been converted into concrete jungles at the behest of the powerful land mafia. Electricity and gas tariffs have increased instead of being curtailed. Major state corporations continue to be headed by cronies and retired or serving bureaucrats who have no experience in the relevant field. Accountability has been used as a tool for political maneuvering instead of clamping down on the corrupt. Amnesty schemes continue for tax evaders and others involved in black economy. Meanwhile, the citizenry continues to be deprived of lifelong savings invested in real estate while regulatory agencies look the other way.

Malik Tariq Ali

Lahore