Loud-mouthing

Speaking in public always has a toll. So was the case with Prime Minister Imran Khan as he mocked his political adversaries at a public meeting, and inadvertently referred to their conduct with the judiciary. He alleged that former PM Nawaz Sharif is trying to woo the superior judiciary for his vested interests. This was more than enough to drive the attention of the apex court, which called in question the intention of the chief executive and castigated him. Such referrals are often meant by political leaders for public consumption, though. Nonetheless, they go on to impact the mindset of their constituents, as well as offend the honourable judges, whose sensitivities obviously matter in body politick.

An honourable judge, who is on the bench hearing a presidential reference against defection of lawmakers, observed what is said outside the court has an impact on the judges, and politicians should desist from this tendency of groping in the judiciary. He was absolutely right. The institution of judiciary must be spared from speculation, and scandalising it to serve petty personal interests. In fact, this is where the line should be drawn wherein institutions should remain above board, and their sacrosanct status upheld. Many of our problems are because we have not been able to usher in confidence in national institutions, and they were dragged into politics for no rhyme or reason. Even if there are reservations on the conduct of any individual or collectively as an institution, the Constitution spells out forums for remedial measures, and that is where the voice of dissent should resonate. Talking from the pulpit and podium have hurt national interests, and ruined strengthening of institutions.

This aspect pointed out by the apex court is not new, and the incumbent PM is not the first one to take the jibe in public. We are all in it. This necessitates not only a code of conduct, but also a rational approach while airing opinions that pertain to people holding constitutional and public offices, and the four pillars of the state. Ridiculing and calling into question the merits and conduct of judiciary, armed forces, parliament and the executive breed lawlessness, and degenerate the society as a whole. This loud-mouthing is unwarranted.

Published in The Express Tribune, March 30^th, 2022.

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