THAT which is regarded as a fundamental requirement of transparency and a guaranteed attribute of a functional and responsible democracy, unfortunately, had to await the initiative of a high functionary of the state to be reminded of and be complied with. Chief Justice ABM Khairul Haque submitted his wealth statement to President Zillur Rahman on Thursday leading the way for the judges of the Appellate Division and High Court divisions to furnish their wealth statements to the CJ.

This is a highly timely step towards filling a transparency and accountability deficit in the highest echelons of judiciary and down below the pyramid. As for the judges of the lower courts it is mandatory for them to attach their wealth statements with the annual confidential reports to the Supreme Court.

The probity on the part of the judges must not only be something that is applied and practised but also to be provided for in a compelling built-in fashion. Safeguarding and ensuring transparency is the golden way to enhance public confidence in the justice system. In this context, what should be the ideal periodicity and modality of submission of wealth statements and their review and oversight would have to be worked out within the system.

What is coming about in the judiciary laudable as it is, needs to be taken as a reminder by other functionaries of the state to follow suit. Thus the Prime Minister, ministers, MPs of the ruling party and those of other parties, other high government functionaries and those of the statutory bodies need to furnish details of their wealth status and bring these to public knowledge. It is extremely important; in fact, it's a cornerstone of a transparent democracy that people in high places, especially those elected, are obliged to periodically submit their accounts, acquisitions and inherited wealth to public scrutiny.

It is evidently a matter of regret that, to the exception of Finance Minister AMA Muhith, none among the ministers and party lawmakers has submitted annual wealth statement despite the Awami League's express commitment in its electoral manifesto to be doing so. T\vo years are passing by and yet no annual wealth statements other than of the finance minister is in the government's hand.

We would therefore urge the Prime Minister to intervene at the party and government levels to end the default culture in an area of the highest importance to ensure credibility of public functionaries and with that to instill confidence in public mind about accountability and incorruptibility of a government.