Ordinary citizens lose money when public resources are utilised to support personal reputation rather than hospitalsor schools. Things like escort cars, specialised security, fuel and administrative personnel add up when hundreds of office holders are involved. Extravagant officialdom also detracts from service delivery and erodes public confidence in institutions.
Civic agencies should establish clear, stringent guidelines for official travel and protocol to prevent waste and hold officials accountable. Reducing needless protocol can save money for projects that directly enhance residents’ lives and demonstrate ethical governance, including funding primary health clinics, fixing schools or enhancing urban drainage.
Ayesha Sagheer
Lahore
