IT was a breath of fresh air to hear some fundamental observations made by the Chief Justice of Pakistan during the course of his opening address for the judicial year 2019-2020.

First, he warned of the dangers of an accountability process which seemed to place political expediency above the dictates of law. He felt that unless this trend was checked the process of accountability would lose all credibility.

Secondly, he talked about the marginalisation of political parties and the dangers this may entail for a country based on constitutional democracy. This trend is apparent by the manner in which the ruling party is constantly waging war against its political opponents. Perhaps it is time to engage in constructive parliamentary debate.

The chief justice went on to comment on the growing censorship of the media and how such practices could become a threat to democracy. He rightly pointed out that constitutionally guaranteed rights of citizens must never be sacrificed at the altar of short-term gains. The PTI manifesto supports this view and it would do well to practice what it preaches.

Let me close with the recommendation of the chief justice for moving forward. He suggests that all stakeholders -- political, judiciary, military, media, civil society -- sit together and resolve the problems which, if left unattended, could lead to disaster.

Surely, this is not too much to ask?

Kamal Hyat
Lahore

Published in Dawn, September 19th, 2019