Successive governments, be these political or khaki, during their tenure have been doling out huge amounts to Pakistan Steel Mills, PIA and Railways to keep these on an even keel. To the dismay of the nation there is no sign of any improvement, but a pattern has been set which is gnawing at the roots of national economy. Amazingly, there has to be reason to this madness, otherwise why would our leaders support incompetency, inefficiency and corruption?
Prime Minister in his speech to the nation narrated this woeful picture and informed that Rs500bn have been provided to these lethargic and constantly failing institutions. He failed to mention a method to stop this rot. Failure of these ever hungry government enterprises confirms the mental apathy and lack of national spirit to take stock of this grim situation and bring some healthy changes.
Nation is within its right to ask, how long the culture of failures and corruption will be sustained to the determent of national economic interests. Positive actions need to be incorporated to correct these consistent failures. There is enough talent and expertise available in the country to stop this chaos, if privatization option is considered.
A brave step, supported by a genuine desire to resolve the institution, is a dire need of the hour. May the nation expect a positive response from the powers that be to restructure these cancerous institutes! Status quo will only help boost corruption in the society and country. An interested lobby would oppose the privatisation to induct their incompetent supporters without a qualm.
MUSTAHSAN ALI TIRMIZI,
Lahore, August 31.