Editorial
Regulatory Reforms Commission
Remove bottlenecks to implementing recommendations
IT is disconcerting that sixty percent of the recommendations so far put forward by the Regulatory Reforms Commission (RRC) could not be implemented because of the prevailing attitude of non-cooperation from different government organisations. In plain and simple language it is known as "redtapism" - an affliction of being averse to change. Though it has been formed to suggest ways to generate dynamism in governance, the bottlenecks are frustrating the commission's efforts. The names of such important government bodies as the Ministry of Environment, Board of Investment (BoI) and Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms have come up in a recent exclusive interview with the RRC chief Akbar Ali Khan. He has been candid enough to point out that the delay in implementation stems not only from bureaucratic levels but also from those beyond.
The need to bring about qualitative changes, particularly in the Board of Investment, can hardly be overemphasised because of the significant role it plays in attracting foreign investors and clearing the way for smooth operation of business. In principle it is supposed to be the "One-Stop" service centre for overseas investment, but in reality it turns out to be a place where would-be investors tend to get bogged down with numerous regulations. The other major hurdle that aspiring business people have to face is during the time of registering their companies with the Registrar of Joint Stock Companies and Firms. Since registration is the very basic legal formality one has to complete before starting a business, an entrepreneur often loses most of the steam when having to negotiate with a strong network of corrupt personnel.
The main objectives of the commission are to scrutinise existing laws, rules and regulations and offer recommendations to the government for reforms where necessary. Such reforms are aimed at enhancing the performance of the officials and staff members in the organisations and bringing dynamism to administration and governance. Therefore, it is advisable that the officials concerned at the government organisations extend all required help to RRC to meet its objectives. No doubt such revitalisation would ensure better governance in the days to come.
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