The government’s success in the procurement of the Covid-19 vaccine, along with its promise of a healthier future, has been marred by the pitiable turnout for the first day of the vaccination drive. Not only is the fact that only 34 vaccines were disbursed worrying, but also that irregularities over who is receiving them are being reported in Sindh. Understanding just how vital this drive is for the survival of the country, the government must act to resolve this problem immediately.

The first round of doses that were received by the government were promised to healthcare workers and members of the medical staff. In fact, even the doses donated to our army by the Chinese military, have been promised to the recipients of the national drive. As such, to have only 34 doses being given out seems like a disgrace to the hopes of normalcy returning to Pakistan. It is imperative that all authorities, whether state or non-state organisations, emphasise the need for all members of the public to get vaccinated eventually. The healthcare workers must be convinced to set a positive example for the general public.

But perhaps what is most troubling is that there have been reports that the vaccine is allegedly being given out to VIP members in Sindh—all of whom were not part of the medical fraternity. Such practices corrupt the entire process, risking the lives of millions across the country. Prejudice should not be tolerated by neither the government authorities nor the people. Immediate action is needed in the form of a comprehensive and transparent plan that discourages such behaviour and endorses legal ramifications in the event that they are repeated once again.

The national vaccination drive was intended to bring Pakistan back on its feet by promising the citizens improved immunity and amplifying the possibility of moving past the complexities brought upon by the pandemic. Any and all misuse of the drive or the vaccine cannot be tolerated and this is a message that governments, both on the federal and provincial levels, need to clarify.