Most economic woes caused by corruption, says TI Pakistan chief

A major portion of national resources goes into the pockets of government servants, which results in inflation, black marketing and unemployment. This was stated by the Chairman of Transparency International Pakistan while addressing a workshop on 'Role of civil society in eradication of corruption' held in a hotel in Peshawar on Wednesday, according to a message received here.
The workshop was organised by Transparency International Pakistan in collaboration with Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) Anti-Corruption Establishment (ACE). The Transparency International Pakistan and USAID, he said, are endeavouring to bring transparency in projects designed for the welfare of public. He also highlighted achievements of Transparency International Pakistan in making USAID accept procurement rules of Pakistan while monitoring disbursement of aid as opposed to following their rules.
About 125 people attended the workshop to discuss the evils of corruption affecting the society. Chief guest Fayaz Ahmed Toru, Provincial Police Officer of KP, eulogising the efforts of Transparency International Pakistan, said it is successfully trying to bring about a change with efforts targeted in different directions and levels of society. The situation could be improved with efforts primarily from government level, NGOs and individuals, he said.
AD Legal of KP Anti-Corruption Establishment, introducing the working of ACE, said that eradication of corruption should be the nation's number one priority in view of the ever-increasing horizon of political and administrative corruption and its baneful multifarious effects on the society at large. Senior advocate from Peshawar, Fida Gul, said that effective civil society could be a powerful weapon against the menace of corruption.
Dr Liaquat Ali, from Mardan, said that absence of effective implantation of counter-corruption measures has resulted in the loss of public confidence in the government. Arbab Gul, from Karak, said that public sector accountability needs to be strengthened. This would help in improving the financial health of the organisations.
Akhtar Jan, a senior advocate from Charsadda ,was of the opinion that a number of actions need to be taken simultaneously to institutionalise and strengthen accountability to contain corruption. Nisar Ahmed Khan Tanoli, Director of Anti-Corruption Establishment, KP, made a presentation on anti-corruption rules and the recently made modifications to help minimise corruption.
In addition, he said, public awareness campaigns through banners and posters are also part of anti-corruption establishment's strategy. Brigadier (r) Muhammad Musaddiq Abbasi, KPK NAB Director General, explained different types of corruption being faced by the society and the role being played by the National Accountability Bureau in containing them. He also gave a few examples of how NAB has been successful in bringing various individuals and organisations to book.