Transparency matters

Not in Islamabad, though

The Sharifs have made a reputation of keeping their thoughts confined to a tightly knit network of family, friends, and a small group of bureaucrats, even when it comes to matters of extreme national importance. Take anything – from the LNG deal with Qatar to the Chinese economic corridor – and you will see very few people in the know. Opposition parties make some noise now and then, but there’s little they can achieve when they are so scattered – within and across parties.

The close circle, or kitchen cabinet, comprises mainly family (including Ishaq Dar), a few top ministers like the Khawajas and Pervez Rashid, and a select group of civil servants. Some of these have been known not to be on best terms with other senior ministers, like Ch Nisar. Such personal friction can often lead to serious problems, like no progress on the National Action Plan (NAP). According to reports appearing in the press, the interior ministry is not communicating properly with the PM office, the prime minister has reduced Ch Nisar’s footprint within NAP, and the finance minister is not okaying the interior minister’s demands for funds. All the while, of course, the fight against terror is compromised. That does not put the government in a good spot considering its promises on terrorism.

There is a need for the ruling party to improve its communication – with the people as well as across party lines. Empty promises just do not sell with the people anymore, especially when it comes to national security and economic survival. Also, the political scene is getting ‘too hot’ to get away with such posturing for too long. People have become more aware. And, thanks largely to PTI, they have also become more forceful and making their voice heard. If the N-league continues to alienate people, it will show on its report card at the next general election.