Still too corrupt

And still none the wiser

So, six years into real democracy and one civilian-to-civilian government transfer later Transparency International still finds us one of the most corrupt countries in the world, and the region the worst afflicted. But Mian sb said things would be different this time. He knew what was wrong, and how to set it right. First it was long years of Musharraf’s dictatorial rule. Illegitimacy of command gives way to unfair appointments, and the cycle of corruption and nepotism spreads. And so it did in those years, even if the economy grew the fastest in many years. Then there was Zardari’s corrupt circle that pole vaulted to the presidency on the sympathy vote after Benazir’s assassination. And since the leadership was only technically democratic, hence only technically legitimate, so little surprise it went about doing just about everything the wrong way.

How about the last one year, though? Of course it is too early to tell, especially considering the troubles democracy’s sincere struggle has had to overcome in such a brief period. And then there are always time lags, especially in economic and social policies, before results of less corruption and increased efficiency begin showing. But the N league is reminded that one year is enough time to gauge policy direction of a new government, to see whether campaign slogans are being translated into real policy. And especially now since the election result itself is coming under scrutiny, with the ruling party unable to put the matter of rigging to rest completely, corruption in the highest offices will once again become prime time news. By sticking to the old way of doing politics in Pakistan, and not making corruption his foremost priority, Nawaz will feel his own legitimacy fading. It doesn’t help that the problems he speaks of are largely self created, and tell as much about his priorities as his understanding of democracy.

Civilian government does not strengthen when the military appears, or is made to appear, weak. In letting personal and ego matters take precedence and adopting an obvious anti-military posture, Nawaz reveals that his sense of strength lies in a feeling of institutional superiority, even as the military continues to be stronger. But these are not the old days, and people’s understanding has improved. Just take a look in India and try to comprehend the reasons behind Modi’s victory. The world’s biggest electorate did not care about the man’s personal outlook, just that his promise revolved around their core problems, and they will judge him for it. Back home, in not creating a similar atmosphere, our agents of democracy do the institution few favours. It is best, even for them, to understand and embrace powerful and dangerous winds of change. If the people do not see their will implemented in the capital, they will resort to other measures. The PM is advised to make corruption is core priority. He will be surprised how many other things will be sorted out automatically.