The PPP-led coalition government at the centre rightfully claims its constitutional right to rule this country as long as it has the numbers, but on the other hand it displays an addictive contempt for rule of law.
How else can this government explain its insistence to re-employ near octogenarians with a controversial history, or grant them endless extensions, in spite of rulings by Supreme Court to terminate all contract employees. This is evident in the case of MD SNGPL, Chairman NBP, MD PIA Investments, etc.
This seems to be a deliberate confrontation with the Supreme Court, although the constitution, which is the source of legal authority for this government, also makes it a mandatory obligation on the sitting government to ensure that its rulings are implemented.
This ruling of the Supreme Court, if implemented, will encourage others more qualified and honest to be promoted after having waited for years. It will also give the government an opportunity to distance itself from bad publicity it has got due to the financial indiscipline associated with these controversial men, who have caused immense damage to the tax-payers.
Unfortunately, the government seems to be least bothered about good governance, nor does it seek to cleanse its image tarnished by the numerous scams. The biggest threat to democracy is the poor governance, abuse of power, lack of accountability and rule of law.
GULL ZAMAN
Peshawar
