Using government facilities

The ruling party high-ups do not apparently see anything wrong with the practice. But what we feel is that such activities cannot be justified only because they have been going on a for a long time. A clear demarcation line has to be drawn by the ruling party between party and governmental functions. Obviously, both laws and conventions form the basis of such a demarcation. To say that there is no need for drawing such a line is to miss the very essence of democratic norms.

The prevalent political culture has a lot to do with the party in power trying to get more than its due share of government facilities. Once the election is won, the winners start believing that they are entitled to all the privileges. We cannot blame any particular party or individual for this type of undemocratic and acquisitive mentality. But as the country proceeds along the road to democracy, it has to show the signs of maturity in matters related to politics, election and governance, especially in areas where overstepping can invite criticism about lack of accountability.

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We have to realise that party activities come under closer public scrutiny before elections. So, using, or misusing, government facilities could send very negative signals about the party itself.

The issue of practising democracy is much broader than holding elections every five years. The ingredients for developing a truly democratic culture have to be nurtured carefully through creating an even playing ground for all the parties. Without question, use of government facilities by the ruling party would be construed as an undue advantage by the opposition. The ruling party or coalition can put an end to the controversy by strictly following the rules of the game.