Trim the fat

Pakistan’s current parliamentary system of government has been in place for the last 50 years or so. By now, the country should have become so prosperous that its status should have been that of an aid-giving country instead of becoming dependent on loans from institutions like the IMF and World Bank and friendly rich countries. Did our rulers/parliament or the analysts ever think on the causes of this state of affairs and suggest any alternatives?

As an ordinary Pakistani, I think the existing parliamentary system of government does not suit our country. Among other shortcomings, it is a very expensive system. A big chunk of revenue collected through taxes is invariably spent on the perks, secretariat staff salaries and the facilities and services the ruling class enjoys on a 24/7 basis. In my opinion, we need fewer rulers and a more centralized form of government.

M Sharafat Ali Zia

Islamabad