Daily Times

Sir: On 9 December, international anti-corruption day is observed by the United Nations. According to the UN, every year $1 trillion is given in bribes while about $2.6 trillion is embezzled annually through corruption. Corruption is a menace that can destroy the social and economic development of any nation. Corruption is a heinous crime which creates obstacles on the path to the progress of any country. Corruption prevails almost in every country in the world to some extent. As termite damages wood, similarly corruption also shakes the roots of the economy completely.

According to transparency international report of corruption index 2016, Pakistan ranks 116th out of 176 countries. The rank indicates a high level of corruption in the country. Neighboring countries India is ranked 79th. It shows India has less corruption as compared to Pakistan. Corruption has been a great hurdle on the way to the development of Pakistan. Pakistan is a country full of natural resources but the economy of Pakistan could not flourish due to its corruption. Corruption is the cause of poverty and unemployment. More than 30 percent of the population of Pakistan lives under the poverty line. Unemployment is also increasing which creates frustration among the youth of Pakistan.

Corruption affects all sectors of the country. For example, the education and health sectors don’t get proper funds, taken funds are also mismanaged. Therefore our institution’s performance remains low. Corruption degrades a nation morally and ethically as well. A corrupt society never gets respect in the world.

The main causes of corruption are the lack of accountability, lack of strict punishments, fewer job opportunities and meager salaries for government employees. These are the elements which push a society towards corruption.

Pakistan can be a corruption free country when the Pakistani nation and government will implement the following guidelines. Anti-corruption institutions must be depoliticized, and they should be given full powers to take action against anyone whoever indulges himself/herself in corrupt activities. There must be an equal, fair and speedy justice system. Spreading education and awareness of corruption and corrupt activities through reporting must be encouraged. An environment must be generated where the rule of law prevails. Lastly, but most importantly, the people must cast their votes for an honest candidate.

RIAZ AHMED RUSTAMANI

Dadu

Published in Daily Times, December 3^rd 2017.