College of Electrical & Mechanical Engineering, NUST

HU-107-Pakistan Studies DE-45 Department of Computer Engineering

Pakistan Studies
Project Report

Submitted To: Dr. Tahir Abbas

Submitted By:

AINA AJMAL
AAMEENA QADEER
ROHAN ARSHAD
WAJAHAT AWAN
DANIYAL EJAZ

DE-45 Syndicate-A

Submission Date:

21st May, 2024

Acknowledgements

First and foremost, we thank Allah Almighty for the strength He gave us, the
blessings He showered upon us and the well-being He bestowed us with. All of
these led to the timely and successful completion of this Project, Alhamdulillah.
We wish to extend our sincere gratitude to our instructor Dr. Tahir Abbas for his
continuous support and mentoring. Without his constant counselling and
assurance, we would not have been able to make the progress we have.
This section would be incomplete without acknowledging the unwavering support
of our teachers, families and friends. They encouraged us to pursue our dreams
and their endless faith in our abilities helped us achieve them. Their acceptance
for our field of choice, confidence in us during our difficult moments and
understanding of the strenuous work routine enabled us to reach the position we
have. We have been able achieve this important milestone of our professional
lives today because of their love and support.
Abstract

This assignment aims to provide historical accounts of the concept of democracy in

Pakistan, with especial the focus on the period between 1947 and 2024 and the civil-
military dynamics that shaped the political landscape of Pakistan. Using historical
background, it identifies periods such as: early state making and the military, perpetuity
of military intervention, instability that characterized interim periods of civilian rule, and
the issue of democratic consolidation. A historical discussion on the contribution of
political leadership, the military dictators and the civil society actors is made in order to
establish their roles and contests for power that impacted on governance and policies.
Shahriar’s book also revolves around pivotal events such as the expulsion of East
Pakistan, Islamization initiatives under Gen Zia-ul-Haq, and new transformations after
‘War on Terror’ in Gen Pervez Musharraf’s rule. It also analyses the recent years in the
civilian government and their efforts to resurrect the democracy, or else to solve the
social-economic issues. As for the main arguments of the paper in regards to the
historical facts, interviews, and case studies, this paper seeks to offer the nuanced view of
the Pakistan’s democracy development issue. Therefore, on the basis of this evidence
there is need for institutions of politics to be stable and for the country to adhere to the
constitution in the provision of a proper civil-military relation that yields for the
formation of a better and success, democratic state.
Contents
Abstract ......................................................................................................................................................... 3
Pakistan’s Democracy and the Role of the Establishment from 1947 to 2024 ............................................. 5
Introduction ............................................................................................................................................... 5
Historical Context (1947-1958) ................................................................................................................ 5
The First Martial Law and Ayub Khan Rule (1958-1971) ....................................................................... 7
The Fall of Dhaka and Bhutto’s Democratic Experiment (1971-1977) .................................................... 8
Zia-ul-Haq’s Regime and the Islamization of Politics (1977-1988) ......................................................... 9
Democratic Interludes and Continued Military Influence (1988-1999).................................................. 10
Musharraf Era and the War on Terror (1999-2008) ................................................................................ 11
Return to Civilian Rule and Democratic Consolidation (2008-2018)..................................................... 12
Imran Khan’s Government and Civil-Military Relations (2018-2022) .................................................. 13
Elections in Pakistan (1947-2024) .............................................................................................................. 15
1977: Controversial Elections and Military Coup .................................................................................. 15
1988-1999: Alternating Civilian Governments ................................................................................... 16
2002: Controlled Democracy Under Musharraf ................................................................................ 16
2008: Return to Civilian Rule ................................................................................................................. 17
2013: A Peaceful Transfer of Power ....................................................................................................... 17
2018: Emergence of PTI ......................................................................................................................... 17
2023-2024: Ongoing Electoral Reforms ................................................................................................. 18
Conclusion .................................................................................................................................................. 19
References ................................................................................................................................................... 20
 Pakistan’s Democracy and the Role of the Establishment from
1947 to 2024

Introduction

Pakistan being a newly born country in 1947 has seen its share of struggles and conflicts
where the military and civil bureaucracy has played a key role in deciding the fate of the
country besides conflicting political forces who longed to have democracy. Over the
years this has significantly influenced the political system of the country, its political
leadership, governance and even socio-economic evolution. This paper focuses on the to
the evolution of democracy in Pakistan since its formation up to 2024 or until the writing
of this paper, examining the part played by different establishments.

Historical Context (1947-1958)

At the time of its creation, Pakistan came into hands with a number of administrative and
military frame work which were rooted back to colonial years. The first decade was seen
as the attempt to consolidate the basic democratic governance structures. The first issue
in Pakistan therefore is that its’ founder, Mohammad Ali Jinnah envisaged a democracy
and unfortunately for Pakistan, he died shortly after its’ creation in 1948 leaving the
fledgling state without a strong and stable leadership. The following years reflected
confusion in political leadership frequent collapse and ineptness in the formulation of a
constitution that only came into existence in 1956. Political institutions remained
comparatively weak, and as a result the civil bureaucracy and military began to assume a
growing importance during this time.

In this regard, it is possible to mention several challenges the nascent state had to
confront, such as the assimilation of multiple ethnic groups, a massive number of
refugees’ repatriation, and the establishment of an effective administration. These were
made worse by the premature death of Jinnah, who was a colossus in Pakistan politics,
and his passing left a vacuum that subsequent leaders to this day are yet to fill. It had
representatives from the Muslim League, which was the dominant political force but its
internal problems like factionalism and leadership crises which hindered its operation.

After the termination of British rule Pakistan got its first constitution in 1956 where
parliamentary system was also embraced. However, this was followed by a long period of
political instability; the power would change hands more often, and the administration
would not run smoothly. This period laid the roots for military to play a more significant
and an active role in the politics due to failing civil administration which could not
manage the political scenario of the country effectively, maintain order and control.
The First Martial Law and Ayub Khan Rule (1958-1971)

The 1958 coup marked the first time that military intervened in the political affairs of
Pakistan, as the civilian government under General Ayub Khan was accused of inability
to bring in order and advancement. The first major change in the political structure
occurred in 1962 when Ayub Khan implemented the system of presidential rather than
parliamentary governance under the new constitution that brought all the powers to the
president. While Ayub’s Pakistan bustled with economic activity as a result of a range of
measures towards development and modernization, political oppression remained
rampant and freedom of speech was stifled. Such was the discontent, which reached its
peak in 1969 uprising that force Ayub to resign and General Yahya Khan was imposed.

Politics Ayub Khan put new trades and implemented a line of economical reforms For the
duration of his rule the country experienced intense industrialization and development
which is also famous as “Decade of Development. Effective results of these changes were
not distribute balanced so there were social and economical stratum. Analyzing Ayub’s
period one can state that the political culture promoted by him does not correspond to the
ideals of democracy as the political opposition was suppressed, the ruling authority not
encouraged any political activity which could potentially threaten its powers; democratic
institutions also weak. His ultimate fall was cause by agitative demonstrations and
demands for change in the political system, indicating that the desire to be heard was
rooted.
Despite these steps General Yahya Khan’s regime also tried to bring back civilian
governments, but the period became notorious due to the increasing divide between East
and West Pakistan. The general elections were held in 1970 for the first time on the basis
of Direct adult franchise and envisaged a sweeping victory of the Awami league in the
east Pakistani province under the leadership of Sheikh Mujibur Rahman. The failure of
the Pakistan’s martial law/administrative regime to enter into power sharing mechanism
resulted into civil strife that ended with the secession of east wing to form Bangladesh in
1971. This became a major set back for Pakistan’s political and military leadership and
for the lack of democracy or even any form of structural political stability that the
country displayed the cost of authoritarianism and poor politics.

The Fall of Dhaka and Bhutto’s Democratic Experiment (1971-1977)

Perhaps, the severing of east Pakistan in 1971 to form Bangladesh can be easily termed as
a very turning point with new Pakistan political structure. Speaking of SI, Zulfikar Ali
Bhutto rose to Important as a leader who was to return the country to democracy. During
1972 to 1977 he formed a government where realization of 1973 constitution was done,
with the intention of formation of parliamentary system of government. However, the
disappointment and political disturbance in power became prominent due to Bhutto’s
autocratic rule which comprised political oppression together with the nationalization of
important industries.

Bhutto introduced his era under the rightful expectations and a number of social
amendments. He put in practice several policies that were aimed at promotion of
economic redistribution and increase of social welfare such as land reforms,
nationalization of several large-scale industries etc. As interim president of the country,
he was responsible for the adoption of the 1973 Constitution which was noted for having
provided for the adoption of a parliamentary system of government and the
acknowledgement of human rights.

However, this identity did not long endear him to the public, as Bhutto quickly turned
autocratic. Stern measures that deal with political opponents and clampdown on the
media did not augur well with many of his supporters. By nationalizing some
organizations and companies, his nationalization policies also brought dissatisfaction
among the business army and economic declines.

Protests swept across the political arena leading to the intensification of political
instability and the people demanding Bhutto to step down. Decaying political activity that
reached a buildup in the 1977 elections when rigging charges overwhelmed the country.
This instability gave the military, led by General Zia-ul-Haq, yet another chance to
intrude into the political sphere.

Zia-ul-Haq’s Regime and the Islamization of Politics (1977-1988)

The new military rule started in 1977 with General Mohammad Zia-ul-Haq overthrow of
the government through a coup d’état. Zia’s regime or era is remembered for its
Islamization programs, which were employed to assume the religious quality to his
regime. The Hudood Ordinances and the judiciary exercising powers to set up Sharia
Courts were steps in this regard. During her regime, she also held non-party-based
elections in 1985 and claimed dazzling democracy while power was in her own hands. Its
flag bearer died in a plane crash in 1988 and this led to the commencement of a cycle in a
civilian rule.

Therefore, Zia-ul-Haq’s rule is a startling epoch in Pakistan’s political development. His

Islamization policies were more of a way of influencing the religion inclined groups in
order to get their support while at the same time establishing a firmer grip on the power
that he held. It is imperative to note that these policies brought the reverberating changes
in the societal structure of Pakistan and incorporated Islamic tradition in the legal and
education sectors.

The idea for holding non–party elections is further in line with Zia’s aim of discrediting
political parties. This period marked a high incidence of violations of human rights,
restriction of political freedom and oppressive suppression of freedom of the press.
However, through these authoritarian moves, Zia still had a fair level of acceptance due
to the close association with the US, especially during the Soviet-Afghan War when the
nation benefited from American support in terms of military and financial aid.

The death Zia in a plane crash in 1988 also unexpectedly left a political void, and people
got ready for the restoration of civil governance. Transition, however, proved somewhat
uneasy owing to the fact that the incumbent powers still bore the negative impacts of
ZIA’s policies plus the perennial intrusion of the military in political affairs.

Democratic Interludes and Continued Military Influence (1988-1999)

From 1988 to 1999 factions of civilian governments were installed by General Mirza
Aslam Beg who succeeded Zia ul Huq by Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz sharif. The elections
may have provided the façade of democracy, but these governments were plagued by
corruption, poor economic decision making, and political instability. The military
overthrow that happened in 1999, under General Mirza Aslam Beg and later General
Pervez Musharraf, remained active behind the scenes. The ruling of opposition parties
like the PPP under Benazir Bhutto and PML-N under Nawaz Sharif by presidents backed
by the military proved as non-stable as a Borrow Museum, thus demoralizing the frailty
of democracy during this period.
It can be recalled that Benazir Bhutto was able to seize power in 198 and this signified
the overthrow of the military for more than a decade. With her government she set on the
agenda a path for democracy and socio-economic development. But her political fortune
was short-lived following charges of corruption and poor management in the
organization’s affairs hence her removal from office in 1990. It is pertinent to mention
that Nawaz Sharif who succeeded her also had similar challenges including the economic
troubles and political unrest. His presidency was characterized by attempts at selling
state-owned business and opening up the economy, but he also had the allegations of
corrupt practices and was dismissed in 1993.
Bhutto and Sharif’s governments continued in an oscillation manner involving exchange
of powers throughout nineties and both were dismissed on charges of corruption and
ineptitude. This period revealed the problems associated with Pakistan’s democracy such
as certain dominance of the army, lack of democracy and prevalence of corruption.

Musharraf Era and the War on Terror (1999-2008)

General Pervez Musharraf’s coupe in 1999 signaled the third military rule in the
country’s history. Musharraf further distanced himself from the previous military ruler
Zia-ul-Haq and presented himself as a modernizing liberal who attempted some measures
of economic liberalization and offered a less extreme version of Islamic fundamentalism.
However, he shifted the policies to favor the US’ War on terror post 9/11 which placed
Pakistan firmly on the US side. The political movements and civil society ‘’Legal coup’’
for opposition political parties to challenge Musharraf led government and were
instrumental in putting in place of democracy.

Musharraf assumed presidency with digressive janitorial reforms of corruption and good
governance. He too brought some economic liberalization policies to power meaning that
his regime brought in economic growth and modernization. Nonetheless, the September
11 2001 disaster greatly influence most of his policies and plans. The war on terror which
Pakistan joined by supporting US in this war benefitted Pakistan a lot in terms of military
and economic support and also caused a lot of internal issues for Pakistan which include
increased terrorism within the Pakistan boarders and other extremism related issues.

The are strong sociopolitical protests in 2007 when Musharraf dismissed the Chief Justice
of Pakistan and inspired the start of ‘the lawyers’ movement.’ These protests, allied with
rising calls for the democratic change, contributed to Musharraf’s resignation in the
beginning of 2008 and the restoration of civilian government.

Return to Civilian Rule and Democratic Consolidation (2008-2018)

The elections held in the year 2008 can be termed as crucial, where PPP came back into
power and Asif Ali Zardari assumed the presidency. During this period various
significant changes occurred such as the passage of the 18th Amendment for the purpose
of limiting presidential power and increasing that of the parliament. However, governing
issues such as terrorism, economic issues, and conflicts with the judiciary seemed never
to end. Nawaz Sharif, heading the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and came
into power in 2012/2013 continued efforts toward the stabilization of the economy of the
nation, as well as the development of the required infrastructural facilities for the country
and was disqualified from holding office in 2017 citing corruption charges.

The restoration of civilian rule in 2008 was a time to for a rethink and a renewed
commitment to building democracy in Pakistan. The PPP, which gained ascendancy after
staging a coup that displaced the regime of General Pervez Musharraf with Asif Ali
Zardari as its leader, was more concerned with constitutional changes to entrench
parliamentary systems. The 18th Amendment, which was passed in 2010, could be seen
as the most significant as it decentralizes powers to the provinces, and limits the powers
of the president.

Nevertheless, the civilian government that superseded it also suffered several setbacks.
Terrorism, particularly due to the War on Terror still persisted with the terrorists
conducting many acts of terror and attacks on civilian and security forces. Other
problems that affected the government included high levels of inflation, unemployment
and other economic problems that are associated with newly formed governments. Being
encouraged by the lawyers’ movement away from their traditional passive role, the
judiciary started balancing power from the executive, and hence, facing regular
confrontations with the government.

2013 saw PML-N the party of Nawaz Sharif reformed and make some reforms with focus
on infrastructure and electricity generation. However, on the ugly side, his seasons of
administration were characterized by the Panama Papers scandal, consequently, he was
disqualified in the Supreme Court in 2017. During this period, it was seen that Pakistan
was still embroiled in problems related to corruption and good governance in its political
structure.

Imran Khan’s Government and Civil-Military Relations (2018-2022)

The 2018 elections were a turning point as Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) led by Imran
Khan came into power with a pledge of new change with accountability and a progressive
outlook. Measures and actions taken by Khan’s government included eradicating
corruption, reformation in the bottom-line economy, and implementing social justice
legislation. Nevertheless, the relations between civil and the military personnel continued
to be significant area of concern. Despite the growth of civilian authority, the military
remained crucial in policy-making especially in the strategic sectors such as foreign and
domestic security policies. Political matters were also becoming polarized and cultism in
this period Of particular significance was to increase .

Imran Khan’s ascendancy to power in the year 2018 was a clear coup from Pakistan’s
conventional political aristocracy. His party, which is Pakistan Tehreek-e-PTI, with its
slogan of ‘Change’, ‘Change’, and ‘Accountability’, focused on anti-corruption and the
vision of a ‘Naya Pakistan’ or a new Pakistan. To reduce poverty the incumbent
government of Sindh, led by Mr. Khan has supported and launched Ehsaas Program.

Nonetheless, several economic problems such as high debts and inflation persisted
throughout Khan’s regime, but there were measures that his government had undertaken
to address these issues. Attempts at seeking support from international financial
institutions such as the International Monetary Fun (IMF) and others that were made
domestically were received mixed opinions.

This war also characterized civil-military relations as relatively intricate. Although

Khan’s government was engaging in an amiable and favorable manner with the Pakistani
military, specifically with regards to the spheres of foreign policy and internal security,
apprehensions regarding military intervention in the spheres of civilian politics did not
cease. During this period; there was political opposition and polarization; with a number
protests and political instabilities.
Elections in Pakistan (1947-2024)
1947-1958: Initial Challenges and Indirect Elections

What is more, it is necessary to add that the period of Pakistan’s early years did not
presuppose direct general elections either. In the political arena, goals centered on the
formation of state institutions and creation of a constitution. This included the first
constituent assembly which was directly elected but was formed with limited powers of
framing the constitution. This era also pointed to issues of political volatility and
leadership succession that turned out to be quite a chimera.

1970: The First Direct Elections

The feelings and impressions arising from the first direct elections were already oriented
toward this goal: rather than serve as a forum for representatives to debate their
differences, the new parliament was expected to consist of either individuals who would
not engage in any political disagreement or those who were capable of backing up their
disagreement with the majority.

These elections are considered an important break through within the political history of
the country. These were: The Awami League, led by Sheikh Mujibur Rahman, won quite
overwhelmingly in Eastern Pakistan while the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), led by
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto dominated in the western part of the country. Due to West Pakistani
diktat and failure to transfer power to the Awami League, East Pakistan seceded and
Bangladesh emerged in 1971.

1977: Controversial Elections and Military Coup

It was a year of events: the disputed elections, a military coup, and political turmoil that
deposed an elected president, brought a country to the brink of a civil war, and polarized
a nation.
The 1977 was the next election being held under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s rule and it is
widely known that lots of frauds and riggings were observed at that time. These
perturbations caused political instability and production of extra-large crowds for
demonstrations and strikes, which served as the alibi for General Zia-ul-Haq to carry out
a military coup that lasted for many years.

1985: Non-Party Based Elections

To ensure that political parties affiliated with certain ideologies are not dominant in the
country, non-party based elections were conducted in 1985 under General Zia-ul-Haq.
These elections were in fact a part of the process to retain control of the armed forces
while making the citizens feel that their government was choosing their leaders. The
elected assembly functioned under the crowded 1973 Constitution that emerged after a
long period of General Zia’s rule that augmented the powers of the president.

1988-1999: Alternating Civilian Governments

The transition of power from 1988 to 1999 In Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif were
able to contest multiple elections to govern Pakistan. Voters wanted to see a liberal
government in the elections 1988, 1990, 1993, and 1997 but military and civil
bureaucracy’s power persisted. However, due to the consecutive sacking of elected
governments by the presidents, mostly instigated with help of military, Pakistan’s fragile
democracy was experienced through regular elections.

2002: Controlled Democracy Under Musharraf

Pursuant to the military coup in 1999, General Pervez Musharraf encouraged the 2002
general elections as a way of endorsing his usurpation. The legitimacy of these elections
was highly questioned as it was seen that they were highly rigged for the favor of pro-
Musharraf parties. The Pakistan Muslim League (Q) (PML-Q) formed a crucial political
block for supporting Musharraf’s strategy.

2008: Return to Civilian Rule

The 2008 elections were consequential as it brought a change of guard and the civilian
administration came back in power after Musharraf’s military rule. In the similar fashion
the PPP, led by Asif Ali Zardari following the gruesome murder of Benazir Bhutto,
scored a major triumph. Such elections were vital to destabilize the previous decade’s
political disorder and bring back the democratic procedures.

2013: A Peaceful Transfer of Power

The 2013 general elections are remembered no doubt as they were the first ever elections
where one civilian government transferred power to another. The power transition in
Pakistan took place during balloting’s since the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PMLN)
of Nawaz Sharif decisively triumphed. It apprehended to be a focal point in demarcating
the upcoming electoral democracy in Pakistan.

2018: Emergence of PTI

The recently held 2018 polls also saw the emergence of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI)
led by Imran Khan as they focused their campaign on eradicating corruption and
governance reform. PTI’s success marked a change in the political demographic of
Pakistan, that encouraged the Pakistan youth and middle-class voting.
2023-2024: Ongoing Electoral Reforms
As a result of the year July 2009 to June 2010, actions have been taken to improve
election in Pakistan for the year 2023-2024. Reforms aim at increasing the protection of
votes through free and fair elections, increasing the transparency of the electoral body,
and matters of electoral malpractice and fraud. It is important to underline that all of these
reforms are necessary for the purpose of strengthening the democratic processes and
establishing the credibility of the electoral process.
Conclusion

From Pakistan’s independence in 1947 to the year 2024, the strength that has faced by the
Pakistan democracy was between dreams and realities and the civil and military
establishment. As we saw, there have been trails of civilian and military administrators
and the struggle for a workable democracy goes on. Democracy in Pakistan can only be
secured if politicians build strong political institutions, respect unconstitutional norms
and work assiduously to meet the social-economic needs of the people of Pakistan.

In all the previous elections that have been held in Pakistan, numerous factors have
affected the conduct of credible and fair elections such as; rigging, fraud and food. Mores
have been made to initiate the changes, such as the use of electronic voting machines,
biometric verification, and monitoring bodies. Political hindrances such as interference,
lack of responsibility and accountability alongside inadequate electoral systems still
compromise the credibility of elections.

In conclusion we would like to note that despite the progress that Pakistan has made in
the right direction for true democratic governance, there is still much work that needs to
be done in order to entrench and further protect its democracy. The country has to free
itself from the dominance of the elites, nurture a culture of checks and balances, and fight
unequal distribution of wealth and other resources for democracy to gain a firm ground in
the nation. Finally, it is only through a collective effort and respect for the fundamental
democratic ideals that Pakistan can grow into the democratic state the people of the
country deserve.
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Haqqani, Husain. Pakistan: Between Mosque and Military. Carnegie Endowment for
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Khan, Imran. Pakistan: A Personal History. Bantam Press, 2011.
Lieven, Anatol. Pakistan: A Hard Country. PublicAffairs, 2012.