The solution to the problem is, perhaps, beyond the capabilities of the election commission for known reasons
LAHORE: Sadly, a good number of our present politicians have tainted pasts. Many are known loan defaulters and involved in corrupt practices/scams. Still a large number of them return to power in successive elections which raises a serious question about the scrutiny carried out by the election commission. Unless it’s made more effective and transparent, we will continue to have such politicians being elected year after year.
The solution to the problem is, perhaps, beyond the capabilities of the election commission for known reasons. Possible redress lies in a different approach, ie, candidates’ scrutiny to be carried out by specially formed teams on the line of Joint Investigation Teams. A remarkable performance of one such team in the Panama case is already before us. Considering the size of the undertaking, a large number of teams would be required which may be very difficult to gather. However, if services of retired officers are obtained then it would become possible and easy.
The retired fraternity of honest bureaucrats would be more than willing to contribute to this onerous task of nation-building. The teams so formed would assist the election commission in determining the moral, social and financial standing of the candidates. This would entail a major effort spread over a longer period than what’s stipulated by the commission. It may as well turn out to be economical since many politicians would reconsider their candidacy fearing that a fair scrutiny might land them into trouble. It would, nevertheless, be worth the effort as it would allow thorough probe of the candidates’ sadiq and ameen credentials, and filter out the unscrupulous ones.
In view of the short time left before the next general elections, this is possibly the best recourse if we want to have better people in our assemblies. Such an unconventional form of scrutiny can only be introduced through the Supreme Court’s intervention.
It is, therefore, requested that the Supreme Court of Pakistan may kindly ponder over the proposal. If they find it feasible and not repugnant to the constitution, they may give direction to the election commission for its effective implementation. By adopting this measure, we would at least block the crooks, though the incompetent would still make their way to the power corridors.
Pervaiz Sarwar
Published in The Express Tribune, July 25th, 2017.
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