Corruption of rulers brings Pakistan to brink of disaster
Muhammad Khurshid
Journalist by passion and Founder of Voice For Peace based in Bajaur Tribal District
Pakistan is a country that has been plagued by corruption for many years. Despite efforts to address the problem, corruption remains a significant issue that affects all levels of society. From the highest levels of government to everyday transactions, corruption has become a part of daily life for many Pakistanis. In this article, we will explore the impact of corruption on Pakistan and what can be done to address this issue.
Corruption is a problem that affects many countries around the world, but
in Pakistan, it has become particularly pervasive. The country has consistently
ranked poorly in global corruption rankings, with Transparency International's
2021 Corruption Perception Index placing Pakistan 124th out of 180 countries.
This indicates that corruption is a significant problem that is affecting the
country's economic and social development.
One of the most visible manifestations of corruption in Pakistan is the
prevalence of bribery. Bribes are often demanded by government officials in
exchange for services, such as obtaining a driver's license or a passport. This
has created a culture of bribery that has permeated all levels of society. Even
the police, who are supposed to enforce the law, are often involved in
accepting bribes to turn a blind eye to criminal activity.
Corruption is also affecting Pakistan's economy. It has resulted in a lack
of investment and a loss of confidence in the country's ability to provide a stable
business environment. Foreign investors are often hesitant to invest in
Pakistan due to concerns about corruption and a lack of transparency in
government decision-making.
The impact of corruption is particularly acute for ordinary citizens.
Corruption often means that basic services, such as healthcare and education,
are not delivered effectively. Funds that should be allocated to these areas
are often siphoned off by corrupt officials, leaving citizens without access to
essential services.
The issue of corruption has become a major political issue in Pakistan.
Prime Minister Imran Khan was elected on an anti-corruption platform, promising
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to tackle the problem head-on. However, progress has been slow, and there are
concerns about political interference in corruption investigations. There have
also been allegations of corruption against members of the government, which
have further eroded public trust in the political system.
So, what can be done to address the problem of corruption in Pakistan?
There are no easy solutions, but some steps can be taken to begin to address
the issue. Firstly, there needs to be a commitment from the highest levels of
government to tackle corruption. This means providing the necessary resources
to anti-corruption agencies and ensuring that they are free from political
interference.
Secondly, there needs to be a change in the culture around corruption.
This means educating citizens about the negative impact of corruption and
creating a culture of transparency and accountability. It also means punishing
those who engage in corrupt practices, regardless of their position in society.
Finally, there needs to be a recognition that corruption is a complex
issue that requires a multifaceted approach. This means addressing the root causes
of corruption, such as poverty and inequality, while also providing support for
whistleblowers and increasing transparency in government decision-making.
In conclusion, corruption is a significant issue that is affecting
Pakistan's economic and social development. It has become a part of daily life
for many Pakistanis, and it will take a concerted effort to address the
problem. By committing to transparency, accountability, and education, it is
possible to begin to tackle corruption and create a more just and equitable
society for all.