Essay: Crisis of Good Governance in Pakistan: Need for Reform and Institution Building
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Fifthly, lack of accountability further volatiles the crisis of good governance. Even if the state officials are corrupt, the bad governance can be averted by holding them accountable. But when the institutions of accountability become subject to the will of the officials then the crisis becomes inevitable. In Pakistan the institution of accountability i.e. NAB is often subject of political controversies. Even the incumbent Prime Minister of Pakistan has discouraged NAB for its independent investigations.
Lastly, political instability in a state puts it into crisis of good governance. When a system of governance is not let to evolve and grow normally and political instability is created in the form of overthrowing a legitimate government, it becomes impossible for a state to ensure good governance.
In order to bring Pakistan out of the governance-crisis, reforms are essential. Among them comes first the institution building. This refers to de-personalization of state institutions. All the state institutions shall be let to work independently without any undue influence and blackmailing. Bringing judiciary and accountability institutions out of the influence of executive can help the country out of the crisis. Secondly, ensuring the smooth relations between the civil and military leadership can also help if not in ensuring good governance then at least in averting many causes of bad governance.
The Parliament of Pakistan has enacted laws nearly on all the major issues that a state and its masses may face. The problem lies in implementation of these laws. This is because of the weak law enforcing agencies. Empowering police as primary measure can help in improving the law and order situation of Pakistan which will ultimately help it in good governance.
Lastly, if the reforms and institution building are to be successfully brought in Pakistan, it is essential to ensure political stability and democratic evolution in here. Governance becomes good in democratic system for most of the times. Though it is not a general rule as many dictators have brought welfare to their people but that is an exception. In Pakistan strengthening the democratic system its forefathers chose will help in bringing it out of the crisis.
In the contemporary run, country might be facing the governance crisis but the evolving custom of political stability is a ray of hope. Unlike in the past, political government is being let to complete its constitutional tenure and then go for elections. That is a healthy development which is bringing Pakistan on the track of good governance. This along with strengthening the democratic practices will also help in minimizing the causes of the crisis. In compact, Pakistan has for long been facing the crisis of good governance but the contemporary political phase can ensure a positive change.