CM Maryam’s anti-corruption drive deserves support

September 12, 2026

Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz Sharif’s decision to launch a strong anti-corruption drive deserves appreciation. Corruption has remained a serious problem in Pakistan and has placed a heavy burden on ordinary citizens. A government officer who demands money for a service is not only breaking the law but also denying people their basic rights. The Punjab government has reported action against more than 54 government officers and employees in recent weeks. The action includes arrests, suspensions and dismissals. Former tehsildars, patwaris and Food Department officials are among those facing action. The government has also established a special secret cell to monitor government departments and has activated Helpline 1350 for citizens to report alleged corruption. The reported decision to keep the identity of complainants confidential is important because many citizens fear pressure or retaliation when they report corruption.

The crackdown has covered several departments, including revenue, local government, police, health and food. In one case, former Deputy Tehsildar Muhammad Anwar Chandor and Patwari Mazhar Ali were arrested over allegations linked to a land dispute. Other officials have also been arrested during trap operations in different districts. The Food Department has also faced major action, with dozens of officers and employees reportedly suspended or dismissed. The Anti-Corruption Establishment has further reported the recovery of Rs45 million from a former superintendent of Gujranwala District Jail. The money was allegedly linked to corruption and misuse of authority. These actions send an important message: public office should be used to serve citizens, not to make personal gains. However, arrests and suspensions alone are not enough. Every case must be investigated fairly, and those found guilty should face the law. At the same time, officials who are cleared of allegations should not face unfair punishment. Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz deserves credit for making anti-corruption action a clear government priority. Her reported instructions to strengthen monitoring, recover public money and prevent the appointment of officers with known corruption records are steps in the right direction.

Other provincial governments should also take similar action. Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan should strengthen their anti-corruption systems, make public services more transparent and provide safe channels for citizens to report bribery.