Slow and steady process of Democracy

The flimsy process of the establishment of democracy has taken another step forward towards maturity with the Senate elections.

The ruling coalition and the opposition parties showed remarkable commitment to the maintenance of a cordial relationship by electing both the Chairman and Deputy Chairman Senate unopposed.

Syed Nayyar Hussain Bukhari belongs to the federal capital territory and Sabir Baloch represents the least populated and most underdevelopment Balochistan province, reflecting the aspiration of the members of the upper house in making the august body appear as a true representatives of the federation.

The two gentlemen are seasoned and trusted workers of the ruling Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) with a long track record of struggle for restoration of democracy during the periods of military rule.

It is hoped that their commitment to democratic values will be reflected in the way the proceedings of the upper house will be run under their leaders, providing balanced opportunity to the legislators from both sides of the house to propose, debate and evolve pieces of legislation reflecting the needs of their constituents.

The Senate, under the 1973 constitution, is a permanent body that cannot be lawfully dissolved even when the nation assembly stands dissolved for the new elections. This provision was put in place to ensure continuation of implementation of important affairs of the state in the absence of a full-fledged elected executive.

The Senate leadership therefore, plays a significant role in maintaining the fine balance that is the hallmark of a parliamentary democracy in a federal set up.

A key function that the chairman of Senate plays is to act as the interim president of the country in the absence of the latter form the seat of power due to foreign tour or leave of absence.

This adds to the onus of the position of forestall any adventurism that is an unfortunate hallmark of many developing countries, including this one.

It is heartening to note that the ruling coalition has made an effort to balance the imperatives of party loyalty with political experience and acceptability across the house while making its choice for the top slots of the upper house.

The democratic forces of the country will be looking forward to a continuation of democratic process, so finely demonstrated in all stages of the election to the Senate.

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Posted by Faisal Farooq on Mar 14 2012. Filed under Opinion, Pakistan, Politics. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.