KARACHI:
Strong institutions play a central role in delivering services to the masses, maintaining the rule of law, and preserving the security of a country. It is incumbent upon all citizens to respect state institutions and strive to keep their integrity in true spirit, irrespective of political inclinations. An ordinary citizen suffers when institutions are weakened as they fail to live up to citizens’ aspirations.
Political parties bear greater responsibility to instill integrity, sanctity and respect for institutions among their followers. But, the situation is quite the opposite in Pakistan, where political leaders don’t spare any opportunity to malign institutions when they fail to further personal political agendas. Defaming key institutions tends to erode their credibility among citizens and seriously hampers their ability to dispose of responsibilities effectively. Institutions gain confidence to function independently when the public trusts in their professionalism. However, when institutions are dragged publicly by political leaders to further their vested interests, it raises skepticism on the former’s biasness and neutrality.
Should political parties have any reservations, they must sit together in Parliament, initiate a dialogue on the roles of institutions beyond their domains, and pass the necessary legislation. This is the only valid way to bring about any change through constitutional means. Institutions should also distance themselves from political alignments and focus on their primary responsibilities to regain the lost ground in the eyes of the public.
Asad Aziz
Punjab
Published in The Express Tribune, September 10th, 2022.
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