Pasban Democratic Party Karachi President Abdul Hakim Quaid said in a statement on Tuesday that Anti-Corruption Day is being observed worldwide today, with the aim of eradicating corruption from the world, which is causing poverty to increase day by day.
He questioned how the elimination of corruption is possible with corrupt governments and administrations in place? He said that corruption is not only the biggest obstacle to development but also the root cause of wars, civil conflicts, and the loss of human lives in many regions.
Speaking on the occasion of the International Anti-Corruption Day, Quaid stressed that until such illegal practices are addressed, the true eradication of corruption from Pakistan is impossible. He linked the widespread corruption in the country to the weakness of state institutions, which directly affects the lives of citizens.
The party leader questioned the effectiveness of observing Anti-Corruption Day while corrupt governments and administrations remain in power, stating that they are the biggest obstacles to progress. He argued that corruption is the root cause of increasing poverty, injustice, and global destruction.
Quaid extended his criticism to the international level, identifying corruption as the root of wars, civil conflicts, and the loss of human lives. He presented the situation in Gaza as a clear example, calling the “story of oppression and brutality” the “worst chapter in human history.”
He also pointed to the alleged appeal for a pardon by former US President Trump for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu in a corruption case, stating that such global circumstances render the observance of Anti-Corruption Day meaningless.
To address the issue at the national level, Quaid emphasized the need for transparent accountability, independent and empowered institutions, an effective judicial system, and honesty among rulers. He said that these are the only ways for Pakistan to emerge from the “darkness of corruption.”
Making a direct appeal to the public, Abdul Hakim Quaid urged citizens not only to pledge to speak out against corruption but also to take practical steps to stop it. He concluded that if the people unite, even the most powerful systems burdened by corruption cannot last long.