And Justice For All

And Justice For All

Dr. Jassim Taqui

The political scene is intensely debating the issue of activating National Accountability Bureau (NAB) in line with 20-point National Action Plan to hold all and sundry accountable for involvement in corruption, kickbacks, money laundering and economic terrorism. It is argued that  terrorism can only be defeated through good governess and transparency. Hence, “ justice for all” should be ensured. But there is a twist in this theme.

This issue reminds me of the 1979 Hollywood classic “And Justice For All”. Al Pacino was acting as Arthur Kirkland, a sharp defense with a heart and conscience. However, he was facing a hypocritical and corrupt legal system. 

Thus, he found himself defending a judge accused of rape. The judge wrongly assumed the lawyer’s ideals and disdain for the courts would drive him to get acquittal, despite the evidence. The rapist even selected a “friendly judge” to act as a “friendly opposition” to ensure his acquittal.

However, justice triumphed despite the corrupt legal system. The final scene of And Justice For All would make you elated when the very defense lawyer, Arthur Kirkland, condemned his client and the court judge knowing fully well that he was risking his career. But he gave the victim justice.

 Now,  the whole nation know the corrupt politicians by name. Their corruption is an open secret despite their deception and massive manipulation of media to hide their crimes. The pertinent question is : would NAB give the nation the much needed justice?