Editorial
Government's scorecard a mixed bag
The changes should invigorate the Advisory Council
At the end of the incumbent government's first year, we would like to evaluate its performance under four specific heads: holding a free, fair and credible election, institution building, political reforms and managing the economy.
As for the first criterion, progress has been impressive and tangible belying the skeptics. The work on preparation of voter list and hand-over of national identity cards is moving apace. And if the task is completed with a minimal margin of error it will go down as a magnificent achievement.
On the institutional front, separation of the judiciary is a giant step forward given the foot-dragging of the elected governments on it. But, of course, it entails a huge implementation-related follow-up on which its ultimate success will depend. The reconstituted ACC has set in motion an anti-corruption drive that was bold and unprecedented in its impact. It touched the untouchable and created an environment in which nobody could feel he/she is above law. There were unforeseen side effects though in the shape of business and investment shying away. About the EC many steps were taken to strengthen it, including manning it properly, except for the fact that it has yet to get an independent secretariat. As for the Public Service Commission and University Grants Commission two very laudable appointments were made at the helms but no institutional reforms have been carried out.
It is in the area of political reforms that the caretaker government drew a blank. In fact, the search for reforms looked stronger months ago, the main cause of its tapering being the fiasco attended upon by the abortive pursuit of the minus-two formula.
Regrettably, in managing the economy, the government invited the harshest of comments, especially because of its failure to contain the food prices within some reasonable limits that cast a shadow over other gains made by it.
However, we continue to repose our faith in the present caretaker government in the clear and unalterable understanding that election will be held by the end of December. For that goal to be achieved, we hope that the reconstituted advisory council will work with determination, focus and untiring zeal devoted to holding an election that will be participated by all.
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