by Rabia Azfar Nizami in The Express Tribune: The democratic structure of governance rooted in accountability, transparency, and public service, now stands marred by shadows of deception and discord within the Senate. This revered institution, charged with upholding the nation’s interests, has regrettably devolved into a stage for political theatrics, where merit takes a back seat to loyalty, ushering in an era of stagnation and betrayal of purpose.
As Pakistan braces for the upcoming Senate elections, the nation’s democracy fluctuates on the brink of uncertainty. The Senate, Pakistan’s upper house also known as the House of the Federation, plays a pivotal role in fostering national unity by ensuring equitable representation for all federating units. Tasked with proposing and reviewing legislation, the Senate holds sway over critical decisions that shape the legal landscape of the nation. Moreover, its role in scrutinising the actions and policies of the executive branch underscores its mandate of accountability, a cornerstone of democratic governance.
Yet, the Senate, once an embodiment of wisdom and foresight, now stands at a crossroads marred by mediocrity. Hollow debates echo through its corridors, and the once-hallowed halls now house mere placeholders, symptomatic of a system plagued by political expediency, nepotism, and vested interests of elite capture. The erosion of quality within the Senate serves as a stark reminder of the institutional decay that threatens the very essence of democracy in Pakistan.
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