The developments in Pakistan following the arrest of former PM Imran Khan once again prove the fragility of the nation’s democratic structure. The political turmoil, abject economic condition, drastic inflation, Pak -a hotbed of terrorism – all this is again showing the nation as a failed state. The political drama after Imran Khan’s ouster yet again proves that democracy still remains a sham in the country. In the 75 years of its existence, Pakistan has never seen a single prime minister complete a full term in office.
Beginning with the assassination of Liaquat Ali Khan to Imran Khan’s arrest, the nation’s history proves an ousted leader is either assassinated, executed, exiled or jailed. All democratic norms are consigned to the dustbin once a leader falls out of favour with the Pakistan army. It is the army leadership that chooses politicians and decides their fate.
There never has been any real democracy in Pakistan and the army’s domination over politics has only grown in recent years. According to analysts, the present developments in Pakistan are about General Munir’s consolidation of power. His predecessor General Bajwa propped up Imran Khan regime and now General Munir is finishing it. And this power struggle is even destroying any semblance of democracy that was there in Pakistan.
Since 1947, when Pakistan gained independence, the nation has witnessed governments being thrown away by military coups, abrogation of constitution and imposition of martial law. Democracy has never been allowed to take roots due to governments dominated by the military.
Pakistan’s military, which has cast a shadow on the civilian leadership in the country since its formation, continues to dominate the political space and prime ministers are only allowed to serve with the military’s approval or support.
Pakistan’s politics is in turmoil once again as a former PM has been jailed and another former PM is waiting to return after ending his exile. Along with the army, none of the previous PMs of Pakistan took steps to strengthen democracy. They all played in the hands of the army and weakened the institutions. Under Imran Khan’s rule, he too is facing serious charges of corruption in the toshakhana case, due to which he has been sentenced. Previous PMs too have indulged in same kind of unethical behaviour and have illegally usurped the gifts from the toshakhana.
With a very weak economy, mounting debt, state sponsored terrorism raising its ugly head against the state itself, political uncertainty and an army waiting in the wings, Pakistan is facing one of its worst battles, but unfortunately it has only itself to blame for the dire situation.
