Corruption in the Pakistan Government - Term Paper Example

Corruption in the Pakistan Government Introduction A review of literature reveals that the concept of corruption has been discussed even during the times of the great philosopher Aristotle. Over the years, the term has been meant to describe what Aristotle had written on the topic, that corruption entails private gain at the expense of the public. Corruption according to thinkers and writers results from power or lack of money. Studies have also shown that developing or under-developed economies are more prone to corruption in governance when compared to developed economies. This area will be discussed in more detail later in this paper. The primary aim of this study is to review the extent of corruption in the Islamic Republic of Pakistan. It will also review whether corruption and poor governance have forced its people to seek other forms of assistance, especially those of illegal militant groups. Definition of corruption According to Aristotle “the deviation or corruption of kingship is tyranny. Both kingship and tyranny are forms of government by a single person, but the tyrant studies his own advantage…..the king looks to that of his subjects” (Heidenheimer, 1997, P. 3). The journal article ‘Social sciences and the evolving concept of corruption’ provides more connotations or meaning to the term corruption. In Biblical terms corruption is plainly injustice, while current perception of corruption means accepting of bribes. The French have a broader perspective and sees corruption as all acts of crime done by civil servants and includes the judiciary as well as the people who try to corrupt the above two classes (G´ENAUX, 2004). But, the definition of the term provided by the OECD, apparently covers all the above perceptions as it defines corruption as “the abuse of public or private office for personal gain” (OECD, 2008, P. 22). This paper will consider the above definition when reviewing the topic of corruption in Pakistan. Corruption in developing economies Pakistan can definitely be classified as a developing economy and studies have shown that corruption levels are higher here when compared to developed ones. Some developing economies have faster growth rate when compared to others, and there is no perceptible differences in corruption levels in both instances (Rose-Ackerman, 2006, p. 218). It has to be seen whether the above two factors hold good in the case of Pakistan as well. In other words, it has to be seen whether corruption in the country is high or low, and also whether it is comparable with a high growth economy like India, China, or Brazil. The three developing economies mentioned here are based on the predictions of Goldman Sachs that they will dominate the world economy within the next fifty years. Corruption in Pakistan Governance of a nation involves the participation of a wide array of people and services, and includes the elected representatives including those in the opposition), the bureaucracy, the judiciary, the armed forces, and the police force. Since the nation has been subject to governance by dictatorship and rule by the army, this too will be taken into consideration here. The following is a statement taken from a letter written by Mr Syed Adil Gilani, Chairman of the Pakistan chapter of Transparency International to Minister of Parliamentary Affairs, Government of Pakistan dated May 8, 2009. Gilani states that “corruption is the ‘cancer’ which has deprived Pakistan Rule of Law since last sixty years, limited the economic growth, hampered investment and reduced the effectiveness of development programs, while diverted the important and scarce public resources, towards private gains, dictatorial rule of the military and civilian rulers, which spread illiteracy, poor becomes poorer, breakdown of democratic and administrative institutions” (Gilani, 2009). This rather long statement (if true) was provided to illustrate the extent of corruption in the country and the diverse ways in which it has negatively affected growth in practically as sectors of governance and development. Pakistan ranks a poor 138 in the corruption perception index released by Transparency International among a total list of more than 200 countries. Interestingly, India, China, and Brazil too share the seventy second rank in the list (Surveys and indices, 2007). Pakistan’s leading English language daily reports a statement by the restored Chief Justice of the Nation, requesting the members of judiciary in removing corruption that exists at all levels: “Chief Justice Iftikhar Mohammad Chaudhry, who marched triumphantly into his office on Tuesday after a break of 16 months, appealed to lawyers to help him rid the judiciary of corruption” (Iqbal, 2009). Development of an otherwise vibrant private sector is also affected due to this. It is heartening to note that the World Bank has ranked the country second in terms of ease of doing business in this sector South Asian region just behind Maldives according to an article published by the Council of Foreign Relations. But it adds that “infrastructural constraints, corruption, weak intellectual property rights, and a feudal system of land distribution are some of the major bottlenecks preventing a more effective and vibrant private sector in the country” (Bajoria, 2009). The Hertiage Foundation and the Wall Street Journal publishes annual reports referred to as the “Index of Economic Freedom’. The report of Pakistan agrees with what has been observed by the World Bank. Corruption again plays a role in constraining the growth of the private sector in the country. A vibrant private sector will boost up the economy and be able to provide secure jobs to many people in the country and help in speeding up overall development of the country. The revenue generated from the private sector by way of taxes and duties can help the government to build infrastructure. If corruption is seen as a limiting factor incapable of providing employment, it can cause resentment among the populace of a nation. Its ‘business freedom’ index which stands at 72.5 is above the world average of 38. For example, it just takes an average of 24 days to start a private business in the country. The country also has relatively low income and corporate tax rates. In spite of trade liberalization and the permit for 100 percent foreign ownership (except in certain restricted areas), FDI is poor in the country. Apart from the many problems faced by the nation (to be discussed later), corruption is mentioned as one of the factors for poor private sector and FDI growth. According to the report, “corruption among executive and legislative branch officials is viewed as widespread” (Pakistan: 2009 Index of Economic Freedom, 2009). Another English language newspaper, the Pakistan Daily reports that “the biggest problem facing Pakistan is not the so-called lawyers’ movement. It is external threats from our enemies and internal threats from these corrupt politicians” (Pakistan Daily, 2009). Even the force responsible for domestic security, the police, is not free from corruption. In this respect Asim purports that “the Police in Pakistan is de-motivated, dis-organised, under paid, terribly corrupt. Not only that the “Elite Force” in the Police is tasked the job of protecting the VVIPs of our country 24/7, leaving the people of this country exposed to the naked aggression of the mortal enemy” (Asim, 2009). Overall, it appears that corruption is rampant in practically all areas of governance and bureaucracy in the country. Moreover, the Government is seen powerless to practically do anything about it due to other pressing problems like political instability and terrorism that is plaguing the country. Terrorism within the country has risen to unprecedented heights within the past few months. Reports of suicide and attacks that kill innocent people in mosques and other public places appear in the media with constant regularity. Moreover, the country was never a strong democratic force in its sixty years of existence. Constant threats and takeovers by military dictators, followed by fragile coalitions have destabilized the political atmosphere in the country. In such a situation, the government, whether it is run by the military or the people will find great difficulty in curbing its problems. Rooting out corruption may take a back seat until its current political and internal security problems are tackled. The country only recently came back to democratic governance after a long stint of military rule. Even so, the Government is a coalition with many internal pressures, where political will to tackle corruption and other problems will be diluted. The one positive factor that has come out is the government’s initiative to fight terrorism which has the support of all moderate and forward looking political parties and groups in the country. What one can wish to hope for is that task of rooting out or at least reducing corruption will take precedence once a certain level of stability comes about in this otherwise vibrant country. International help and commitment to jointly fight terrorism from India’s newly elected government is a positive step forward in this area. But until something concrete takes place, the fight against corruption will not be a priority, not because of a will, but due to other pressures mentioned above coming in the way. Effects of corruption on the economy and the people Existence of corruption has two distinct faces, one being the abuse of office, and the other, its effect on the economy. For example, aid from an international institution may not be utilized properly for the purpose for which it was given. This will directly affect the quality of life of its people. Highly corrupt economies may also find difficulty in obtaining aid, which is essential for developing infrastructure. Even if spending is done on developing infrastructure, corruption will ensure that the amount spent is not fully utilized and instead will find its way into the hands of public and private officials involved. According to Susan Rose-Ackerman, “a country is poorer overall if corruption levels are high. It may be caught in a corruption trap where corruption breeds more corruption and discourages legitimate business investment” (Rose-Ackerman, 1999, p. 3). If such a state of affairs continues, people will get discouraged and disillusioned and naturally look to alternative ways by which their lives can be improved. This can be taken advantage of other individuals and groups (for example illegal militants) that will use their power for ulterior motives. People looking elsewhere for solutions There is no denying the fact that Pakistan is facing a crisis, of which corruption only plays a part. The result is that people of the country could now be increasingly aware of the government’s inability in providing good and safe governance. An article titled ‘A Pakistani-centric understanding of militancy’ is of the opinion that there are three type of militant organizations within the country. One is primarily regional in nature and is relegated to areas in Balochistan. The second more serious threat is the religious extremists, whose front is the Pakistan Taliban. The inability to provide security is one of the problems that fuel the violence unleashed by the group. But a more serious concern with far reaching consequences is present according to the article. As Mazari points out, this is not just “an issue for the tribal areas anymore, but for the whole country, where the state machinery is becoming increasingly corrupt and ineffective. And, if the number of madrassahs are anything to go by, there is a silent but disgruntled, poverty-stricken youth that are "sleeper" Taliban” (Mazari, 2009). The third group of militants is manned by people due to abject poverty and lack of hope for the future. They seem to have no choice but to join militant groups in exchange of money and financial security. For example, exploitation of farmers by strong business groups will deprive them of their rightful income and the state is seen unable to do anything about it. Keefer and Norman, quoting a study by Stern, find that there is only a moderate relationship between poverty and militancy or terrorism. They argue that many of the illegal militant activities are done by educated and even well off youth. The reason is disillusionment and a dislike for the policies of the ruling body of a country. To quote the authors’ own words: “Those who claim a connection between poverty and terrorism could respond that at least on the micro-level, well-to-do citizens become terrorists out of public spiritedness for their impoverished fellow citizens and organizations choose them to perform these tasks because of their reliability and skill” (Keefer & Loayza, 2008, p. 149). The authors above, refers to a study done by Nasra Hassan where two hundred and fifty Palestinian militants were interviewed by her. The response of one Hamas leader was that the problem they faced was too much demand by educated and even well-to-do youth to join their operation and be sent out to perform ‘active duty’ in the name of principle and conscience. This altruistic attitude is reminiscent of the legendary Robin Hood, who fought the corrupt and cruel sheriff of the county responsible for injustices against the poor and the downtrodden. This situation can occur in Pakistan also where youth with misplaced principles and good intentions join illegal militant groups in their efforts to bring justice to the people. Conclusion Pakistan is now faced with a host of problems one corruption is only one of them. The result is that people see poor governance, lack of security, and injustices meted out to many sections in the society, especially the poor and the downtrodden. Disillusionment, poverty, and misplaced idealism are some of the factors that prompt people to find solutions by joining legal and illegal militant outfits and terrorist organizations. It is also true that many are misguided or brainwashed into active participation. The presence of US troops and planes in Pakistani soil is not seen acceptable by many of its citizens and sees it as a result of a weak government at the centre. Even though there is no moral or religious justification in associating with and indulging in violence, the current situation is apparently forcing many to do so. Only a strong government at the centre that people perceive as sincere and caring, and willing to act on behalf of its people will be able to make a difference in the situation. Cooperation from all sections including the opposition is necessary at this time of need. It is hoped that the country can, with internal and international cooperation, overcome its problems and be removed of the threat of illegal militancy and terrorism. This will also result in good and stable governance and it is possible with foresight, patience, and time. References Asim. (2009, May). The State of Police Force in Pakistan. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from Pakistan Defence website: http://www.defence.pk/20090528/the-state-of-police-force-in-pakistan/ Bajoria, Jayshree. (2009, April). Stabilizing Pakistan: Boosting its Private Sector. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from the Council on Foreign Relations Website: http://www.cfr.org/publication/19260/ G´ENAUX, MARYVONNE. (2004). Abstract. “Social sciences and the evolving concept of corruption”. Crime, Law & Social Change. Kluwer Academic Publishers. 42, 13–24. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from the website: http://www.springerlink.com/content/u362u26p05620244/fulltext.pdf?page=1 Gilani, S.A. (2009). Transparency International Pakistan Comments on the proposed holders of Public Offices. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from Transparency-International website: http://www.transparency.org.pk/pm/nab/letter%208%20may%2009.pdf Heidenheimer, A.J. (1997). Political Corruption: A Handbook. 4the edition: Transaction Publishers. Keefer, P & Loayza, N. (2008). Terrorism, Economic Development, and Political Openness. Illustrated Edition: Cambridge University Press. Iqbal, Nasir. (2009, March). Iftikhar seeks to cleanse judiciary of corruption. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from DAWN Media Group website: http://www.dawn.com/wps/wcm/connect/dawn-content-library/dawn/news/pakistan/pakistan-s-chaudhry-calls-for-end-to-corruption--il Mazari, S.M. (2009, April). A Pakistani-centric understanding of militancy. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf website: http://www.insaf.pk/News/tabid/60/articleType/ArticleView/articleId/2076/A-Pakistanicentric-understanding-of-militancy-by-Dr-Shireen-Mazari.aspx OECD. (2008). Corruption: a glossary of international standards in criminal law. OECD Publishing. Pakistan: 2009 Index of Economic Freedom. (2009). The Heritage Foundation. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from heritage.org: http://www.heritage.org/index/Country/Pakistan#business-freedom Pakistan Daily. (2009, March). Pakistani Politicians A Threat To National Security. Retrieved June 1, 2009, from: http://www.daily.pk/politics/politicalnews/9579--pakistani-politicians-a-threat-to-national-security.html Rose-Ackerman, Susan. (2006). 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