THIS is apropos the editorial ‘Time to talk democracy’ (Aug 12). There is no denying the fact that democracy is indeed the best form of government.

However, often there has been a rhetoric that ‘democracy is in danger’ by the so-called democratic political parties to hoodwink the people for their personal gains. How much do these political parties care for democratic values?

The institutions have been ruined by the ruling elite for their personal agenda. We see appointments on the political basis, while institutions work under government pressure.

NAB, an ‘autonomous’ body for accountability, has degenerated into a dysfunctional institute. If it weren’t for the lackadaisical NAB, this nation would not have gone through the Panama kerfuffle. Other institutions are no different.

Almost all major parties either practise dynastic politics or are controlled by dictatorial patriarchs. Blatant nepotism, corruption and tax evasion are prevalent in the entire political framework.

The mere attendance record of parliamentarians is a stark example of the disregard for parliament and democracy.

Therefore, democracy may or may not be under threat from non-political stakeholders, but it is certainly in grave peril from the so-called democrats. It will require goodwill from within the political forces and not from outside to strengthen democracy.

Mumtaz Ali
Mardan

Published in Dawn, August 23rd, 2017