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Accountability & judiciary
Accountability goes hand in hand with democracy and serves to strengthen democratic norms by deterring corruption through checks and balances. Islamabad High Court’s restoration of disqualification to ten years for people convicted under the National Accountability Ordinance (NAO) is a good step in upholding the accountability regime. This disqualification time period is a good precedent and will stop people in politics to do corruption without any fear of punishment or repercussions.
The country is set to hold the general election in February and IHC’s verdict at this time is very significant. The months leading to elections are politically, constitutionally and judicially very crucial. It is during these months that the judiciary’s decisions chart the course of democracy in various cases where state institutions and politicians are the petitioners. So this time is an equal chance to either disrupt or shake democratic values or to strengthen them, depending upon the decisions that are taken.
The restoration of the ten-year disqualification period emphasises the court’s commitment to upholding the integrity of anti-corruption measures. This legal development underscores the judiciary’s role in maintaining the efficacy of accountability laws and indirectly boosting people’s trust in the electoral process. Pakistan’s corruption problem is widespread and has badly shaken people’s trust in politicians and the political process.
In such a scenario, the role of state institutions whose prime function is checks and balances increases manifolds. NAB’s plea for restoring disqualification periods and IHC’s subsequent adoption of the decision give hope that the institutions are doing their part. The strict and impartial accountability can only lead the country towards political as well as economic stability.
MUNAWAR SIDDIQUI
Lahore
Resurgent concern
Through the columns of your newspaper, I’m writing to convey my profound concern about the recent surge in COVID-19 cases in our neighbourhood. Seeing the virus return is depressing given all of the efforts that have been made to stop its spread.
Notwithstanding early advancements and extensive immunisation drives, the latest outbreak serves as a reminder that the fight against COVID-19 is far from over. To safeguard itself and others, our community must continue to be watchful and proactive in following public health recommendations.
I implore the local government to step up immunisation campaigns and put community safety first by enacting laws. Public awareness efforts should also be strengthened in order to inform locals of the value of adopting preventive measures including wearing masks, washing their hands and avoiding close contact with strangers.
Let’s come together as a team to overcome this health problem as we move through these difficult times. Through maintaining awareness, lending mutual support and adhering to public health directives, we may work together to improve community health and prevent the spread of COVID-19.
BUSHRA FARRUKH
Rawalpindi
Health facilities
Balochistan, the largest province in Pakistan, is facing a critical problem that calls for immediate attention and collaboration – the lack of adequate health facilities. The current state of healthcare in the region is unfavourable, making it difficult for residents to access basic medical services.
The lack of hospitals is a primary reason for this crisis. Many areas in Balochistan lack even basic healthcare facilities, causing individuals to travel long distances in search of medical support. This not only delays treatment but also puts an extra burden on those who are already dealing with health-related challenges.
Improper health facilities in Balochistan have severe consequences, especially during health crisis. Whether it’s a disease outbreak or a natural disaster, the region is unable to handle emergencies, which makes residents vulnerable and exposed. The healthcare system must be resilient to protect the community’s well-being during unforeseen circumstances. The government as well as non-governmental organizations and stakeholders in the private sector, need to work together to address this pressing issue. In order to enhance the overall health facilities in Balochistan, investing in the construction of new hospitals, recruiting and training healthcare professionals and establishing a reliable supply chain for medical resources are essential steps.
SHAYHAQ CHAKAR
Awaran
Fight for survival
I am writing to highlight the dire situation unfolding in Gaza, where the residents are facing a desperate fight for survival. The ongoing conflict and humanitarian crisis have created an environment of immense suffering for the people in this region.
The lack of basic necessities, including food, water and medical supplies, has reached alarming levels. Innocent civilians, including children, women and elderly, are bearing the brunt of this crisis, and their lives are at risk every day. It is disheartening to witness the continued struggle of the people in Gaza as they fight not only for their rights but also for their very existence.
The international community must come together to address this dire situation and work towards a lasting solution that ensures the wellbeing and safety of the people in Gaza. Humanitarian aid must be prioritized and diplomatic efforts should be intensified to promote peace and stability in the region.
It is our moral obligation to raise awareness about the fight for survival in Gaza and to advocate for immediate action to alleviate the suffering of the innocent civilians caught in the midst of this crisis. The time for decisive action is now, and the global community must unite to bring hope and relief to the people of Gaza.
NIMRA MALIK
Rawalpindi
