Gifts that come the state way in the form of accolades have become a bone of contention in Pakistan. There are unending tales ranging from embezzlement to misappropriation of those valued gifts, and almost all heads of state and governments, as well as officials and ministries, are there in it. This is quite an unethical aspect of our public life, and is a grim reminder that decency and recourse to rule of law is apparently missing. Thus, the legislation introduced by a private member in the upper house to regulate Toshakhana (treasure office) and restrain public office-holders from retaining gifts is worth-pondering. The contention that state gifts should rest with the state in the form of archives is well appreciated, and should be case in all humility.
It is proposed in the bill that public office-holders and their family members should not be allowed to retain or purchase gifts. Basically, there is a déjà vu in this matter, as there are incidents when such gifts either went missing or were held back by august receivers by exercising their privilege. The Toshakhana, under the Cabinet Division, possesses valuables gifted to dignitaries by foreign governments as a goodwill gesture, and they range from bulletproof cars to gold-plated souvenirs, and from watches to ornaments. But many of them are now either in private use of recipients or sold off for a price tag. Under a contested law, these gifts could be retained or bought for a minimal token prize, and that ranges somewhere around 15% of the actual value estimated.
The proposed bill now stipulates the procedure for depositing, maintaining and disposal of gifts. It also wants a ban on office-holders and their family members prevailing over Toshakhana, and the same be auctioned, if necessary. This piece of legislation, if it goes through, will be of great help in clearing the mist that has led to slandering and abuse of public office-bearers. Moreover, it will act as a lawful deterrent in checking abuse of power, and undue favours at the cost of national pride and treasury.
Published in The Express Tribune, July 8th, 2022.
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