Daily Times

Sir: Robust accountability framework bolsters the democratic process by strengthening the pillars of democracy and raising the public confidence on democratic forms of government. Actually, the edifice of democracy is erected on certain pillars: accountability, transparency, rule of law, justice, true representation, institutional balance and provision of basic rights.

The efficacious and multilayered accountability mechanism certifies the implementation of all these principles in law and sprit.

For instance, intense parliamentary checks and balances on executive ensure transparency and maintain civilian supremacy in the country as parliament conducts its accountability by itself. Without it, the undemocratic forces are compelled to intrude in the democratic affairs and disrupt the entire process. Similarly, vigorous accountability via institutions- National Accountability Bureau, Election Commission, and civilian courts- ensure financial accountability of legislators and guarantees that only true public representatives reach parliament through free and fair elections. This certifies political stability, rule of law, justice and improved governance and human development in the country.

In short, strong accountability mechanism strengthens the democratic principles which in turns raise credibility of democratic institutions and shrinks the path of undemocratic acts. Consequently, the whole structure of democracy becomes stable. As American author, Garry Wills, writes, “accountability is the essence of democracy”. Therefore, it is imperative for PTI’s government to bolster the accountability framework by bringing structural reforms in various state institutions so that our democracy will be counted in the list of world’s best.

AGHA SHAHRIYAR KHAN

Karachi

Published in Daily Times, August 19^th 2018.