Inefficiency in lawmaking

In the labyrinth of Pakistan’s legal landscape, a critical issue often overlooked is the protection of witnesses. The Sindh High Court has recently brought forth a glaring inefficiency: the prolonged delay in finalising the Sindh Witness Protection Rules. This delay not only undermines the integrity of our legal system but also exposes systemic shortcomings that warrant urgent rectification.

The disclosure that the provincial home department has awaited stakeholder responses on the draft rules for eight years is deeply troubling. Despite the passage of such a long time since initiation, stakeholders’ input remains outstanding. Such bureaucratic inertia reflects a broader malaise within our administrative machinery, impeding the effective functioning of our judicial framework. The Sindh Witness Protection Act, 2013 stands as a beacon for ensuring the safety of witnesses and upholding the tenets of justice. Yet, its efficacy is compromised by the protracted delay in implementing accompanying rules, which not only jeopardises witnesses’ security but also undermines the timely dispensation of justice. Both the law and home departments have sought to deflect responsibility citing trivial concerns, which only point towards lack of accountability and professionalism. This blame game reflects administrative inefficiency and exacerbates public disillusionment. The judiciary rightfully expresses discontent, but admonishments alone cannot remedy systemic dysfunction. Concrete steps are imperative such as expediting stakeholder responses, clarifying approval processes and ensuring effective enforcement mechanisms. Additionally, fostering a culture of accountability within administrative structures is crucial to prevent similar lapses in the future.

The enactment and enforcement of laws are the lifeblood of our democracy, and any lapses therein compromise the very essence of justice. It is incumbent upon the relevant authorities to heed to the court’s warnings and expedite the process. Failure to do so not only erodes public trust but also perpetuates a culture of impunity and injustice.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 12^th, 2024.

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