The superior judiciary of Pakistan, headed by Chief Justice Iftikhar Chaudhry, has become a thorn in the scheme of those who are bent upon rampant institutionalised corruption in this country. All of them, from biggest land and drug mafia dons, to the corrupt civil and uniformed bureaucracy and members of the ruling political coalition, have got together to scandalise reputation and credibility of the sole institution of this country, in which people have faith.
Had it not been for our judiciary, the rental power projects would have continued receiving billions without producing any electricity and this country would have become an economic nightmare heading for another Somalia. The decision on dual membership has put obstacles in way of economic subjugation and colonization of Pakistan by those who have pledged their loyalty and allegiance to another country, yet occupy important public offices.
We live in a country where the state is unmoved about thousands killed in target killings, while hundreds are kidnapped for ransom and where extortion has become a booming business in Karach. Yet in this country the highest constitutional office holders are arranging payment of ransom to Somali pirates in violation of UN charter and Security Council resolutions which clearly do not recommend such payments. We need to remember that it was the singular act of defiance by Chief Justice Iftikhar of a tin pot dictator, which set into motion a chain of events that led to forced exit of Musharraf.
When Chief Justice stood up, neither BB nor NS were in Pakistan. The present campaign which allegedly involves exploiting a young man in a sting operation, was stage managed by those who feel irritated by the pro-active role of judiciary to force an accountability process on an executive which seems committed to do otherwise. This is a conspiracy by the corrupt to malign the role of Supreme Court and replace it with a more subservient setup, which should never be allowed to succeed.
MALIK TARIQ ALI
Lahore
