A roadmap for democracy

Munem Wasif / driknews

If we imagine that democracy is the destination, corruption-free society should be thought of as a road towards that destination. Democracy cannot or will not be successful in a corrupt society. In order to make democracy meaningful and comprehensive, first of all, we have to root out corruption. Corruption breeds inequality, movement, political turmoil and many such ills.
Corruption is rampant in third world countries. From top to bottom, each and every person is involved in corruption with few exceptions. When corruption crosses its limit, the “third force” comes to power as a saviour to the nation. This type of government can get tremendous support from the masses but without the support and co-cooperation of political leaders, bureaucrats, the business community and intellectuals, no government can function effectively - let alone successfully.
The present CTG has no support of political leaders. The top leaders of the two main political parties are in jail on corruption charges and the rest of them are under “threat”. Initially, some leaders supported the anti-corruption drive by this government. Subsequently, they kept themselves aside for various reasons.
To establish a robust democracy, the following are the preconditions:
1. Achieving a literacy rate of more than 90%.
2. Separating the judiciary from the executive and giving it functional independence and autonomy.
3. Making all sectors corruption-free.
4. Freedom of the print and electronic media.
5. Ensuring transparency and accountability in the administration.
6. Strengthening local government and making it politics-free.
7. Separating the Election Commission from the Executive branch.
8. Uprooting the sources of black money.
9. Introducing e-governance.
10. Strengthening the Anti-Corruption Commission.
Corruption cannot be eliminated within a short period of time-- it is a long process. But we must not lose sight of our goals!