Minister Confesses

The recent statement made by Labour Minister of Punjab, Ashraf Sohna raised many eyebrows and angry responses from other ministers and the public alike. However, I fail to share the same sentiments. In fact this confession has given me reason for joy. In response to a question regarding the provincial government’s failure to implement minimum wage for labourers, Ashraf Sohna said, “(the House) failed to implement the minimum wages of Rs 7,000 a month because it lacks political will and administrative capabilities.” He also added that the Punjab Government was, “siding with the exploiters of the labourers, instead of supporting the workers.” Corruption is the most dominant characteristic of our government. The public knows it and the government itself knows it. But it always shamelessly defends and attempts to explain or justify its policies and actions. This seems a first when a minister has admitted to it. Although the minister has not promised to try and change the situation but even his confession seems a first step towards a change. Indeed, change cannot take place until we perceive and declare the problem. And the minister has certainly done so.