CHIEF of JUI(F) Maulana Fazlur Rehman has invited the Government to agree on a Charter of Democracy (CoD), warning the opposition was ready for confrontation if it refused to change the course. Speaking in the National Assembly, he accused the Federal Government of misusing the Constitution to impose governor’s rule in KP, saying the move undermined democracy, constitutional supremacy and the rule of law. Fazl alleged that the governor’s rule was linked to foreign powers seeking access to mineral reserves in the province’s tribal areas.
The historic original CoD was signed way back in May 2006 by the leaders of the PPP and the PML(N) and it was hailed as a ground-breaking understanding between the two major political rivals to work together for the cause of democracy and supremacy of the parliament. It produced mixed results – delivering major constitutional and institutional milestones but failing to permanently end the chronic problem of political instability. A system is considered to be as strong as its institutions but our institutions remain as fragile as before because of tug-of-war for power and influence. Proponents of a new charter argue that the original framework needs updating or revival to address the current challenges. In theory, it sounds logical as a mechanism can deliver only if it was evolved with consensus and enjoyed backing of the relevant stakeholders. However, our track record shows there was nothing wrong with documents – be it the constitution or the CoD – but it is the intent and sincerity that matters. Are political parties ready to shun self-centred policies and contribute their share for strengthening the democratic process?
