Final Notes of Political Developments in Pakistan
Final Notes of Political Developments in Pakistan
Introduction
As Ayub Khan once stated, "The fate of a nation is decided by the manner in which it is
governed" (Khan, 1967). This statement underscores the significance of effective governance in
shaping a nation's destiny. During Ayub Khan's era, Pakistan underwent a series of
administrative, political, economic, and social reforms aimed at modernizing and stabilizing the
country.
Administrative Reforms
1. Land Reforms
The Land Reforms Regulation of 1959 aimed to reduce inequality in land ownership by
imposing a ceiling on individual landholdings (Government of Pakistan, 1959). According to
statistics, the reforms resulted in the redistribution of 1.3 million acres of land to small
farmers and landless peasants (Khan, 1967). As noted by economist Mahbub ul Haq, "The
land reforms were a significant step towards reducing rural poverty and inequality" (Haq,
1963).
The introduction of a merit-based system for recruitment and promotion improved the
quality and competence of civil servants (Civil Service Reforms Commission, 1959). This
reform was in line with the principles of Max Weber's bureaucratic theory, which
emphasizes the importance of merit-based recruitment and promotion in a modern
bureaucracy (Weber, 1922).
3. Decentralization of Power
The One Unit scheme, introduced in 1955, aimed to promote national unity and integration
by merging the four provinces of West Pakistan into one unit (Government of Pakistan,
1955). However, this reform was criticized for concentrating power in the hands of the
central government and undermining provincial autonomy.
This system established local self-governing bodies to provide basic services such as
healthcare, education, and sanitation (Khan, 1967). As noted by political scientist Khalid bin
Sayeed, "The Basic Democracies system was a significant innovation in local government,
but it was also criticized for being a tool of authoritarian control" (Sayeed, 1967).
5. Educational Reforms
The government increased investment in education, establishing new schools and colleges,
and reorganizing the system of higher education (Ministry of Education, 1962). According to
statistics, the number of educational institutions increased from 14,000 in 1958 to 24,000 in
1969 (Ministry of Education, 1969).
Political Reforms
1. Constitutional Reforms
The 1962 Constitution established a presidential system with enhanced powers for the
president (Government of Pakistan, 1962). As noted by constitutional expert Hamid Khan,
"The 1962 Constitution was a significant departure from the parliamentary system, but it
also concentrated power in the hands of the president" (Khan, 2011).
2.Electoral Reforms
The introduction of indirect elections aimed to reduce the influence of traditional politicians
and increase the representation of rural areas (Khan, 1967). However, this reform was
criticized for undermining democratic principles and favoring the ruling elite.
The government banned political parties in 1958 and introduced a system of elected
representatives not affiliated with any political party (Government of Pakistan, 1958). As
noted by political scientist Lawrence Ziring, "The ban on political parties was a significant
blow to democratic institutions and paved the way for authoritarian rule" (Ziring, 1997).
The Basic Democracies system established local councils to provide basic services and
promote decentralization (Khan, 1967). However, this reform was criticized for being a tool
of authoritarian control and undermining local autonomy.
The Press and Publication Ordinance of 1963 imposed restrictions on the freedom of the press,
requiring newspapers to obtain government approval for publication (Government of Pakistan,
1963). As noted by journalist and human rights activist, I.A. Rehman, "The Press and Publication
Ordinance was a significant blow to press freedom and paved the way for censorship and media
control" (Rehman, 2011).
Economic Reforms
Economic reforms were a crucial aspect of Ayub Khan's development strategy. As he stated,
"The ultimate objective of our economic policy is to create a self-reliant economy, which can
sustain itself without foreign aid" (Khan, 1965).
Industrial Reforms
1. Agricultural Reforms
The government established the Pakistan Export Promotion Bureau (PEPB) to promote
exports and trade (PEPB, 1962). According to statistics, Pakistan's exports increased from Rs.
4.3 billion in 1958 to Rs. 10.3 billion in 1969, resulting in a significant increase in foreign
exchange earnings (PEPB, 1969).
The Indus Basin Treaty, signed in 1960, resolved water disputes between India and Pakistan
and allocated the Indus River and its tributaries between the two countries (Indus Basin
Treaty, 1960). As noted by historian Ayesha Jalal, "The Indus Basin Treaty was a significant
achievement in regional diplomacy and cooperation" (Jalal, 2014).
5. Social Reforms
Social reforms were an essential aspect of Ayub Khan's development strategy. As he stated,
"The ultimate objective of our social policy is to create a just and equitable society, where
every citizen has access to education, healthcare, and employment" (Khan, 1965).
Despite the ambitious reforms, Ayub Khan's presidency faced significant challenges and
criticisms. The concentration of power in the hands of the president and the suppression of
political dissent raised concerns about the erosion of democratic values. The land reforms
encountered resistance from powerful landowning classes, and the benefits of economic
growth were not evenly distributed, leading to social discontent.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the reforms introduced during Ayub Khan's era aimed to modernize and stabilize
Pakistan. While the reforms had some positive impacts, they also faced significant challenges
and criticisms. The concentration of power in the executive branch, the suppression of political
dissent, and the uneven distribution of economic benefits undermined the effectiveness of the
reforms. Nevertheless, the reforms remain an important part of Pakistan's history and
development, providing valuable lessons for future policymakers and reformers.
Historical Background
Pakistan's history is marked by periods of political instability and military rule. As noted by
historian Ayesha Jalal, "The military's intervention in politics was a consequence of the country's
fragile political institutions and the failure of civilian governments to provide effective
governance" (Jalal, 2014). This chapter provides a historical background of the events leading up
to Ayub Khan's rule.
In October 1958, General Ayub Khan seized power in a military coup, marking the beginning of
a decade-long period of military rule. As Ayub Khan himself noted, "The coup was necessary to
restore stability and order in the country" (Khan, 1965).
A. Economic Factors
1. Economic Inequality
One of the primary economic factors that contributed to Ayub Khan's downfall was the extreme
economic inequality that characterized Pakistan during his rule. According to some estimates, 22
families controlled around 80% of the country's wealth, leading to widespread discontent among
the population (Haque, 1969). As economist Mahbub ul Haq noted, "The concentration of wealth
in a few hands was a major obstacle to economic development and social justice" (Haq, 1963).
Another significant economic factor that contributed to Ayub Khan's downfall was the country's
increasing reliance on foreign aid and debt. By December 1961, foreign aid was more than twice
the size of foreign loans, which worsened unemployment and economic instability (Khan, 1965).
As noted by economist Lawrence Ziring, "The reliance on foreign aid and debt created a culture
of dependency, which undermined Pakistan's economic sovereignty and independence" (Ziring,
1997).
3. Disparity in Development
A third significant economic factor that contributed to Ayub Khan's downfall was the disparity in
development between different regions of the country. The government's development policies
favored West Pakistan, particularly Punjab and Karachi, at the expense of East Pakistan and
smaller provinces (Haque, 1969). As noted by economist Akbar Zaidi, "The disparity in
development created significant economic and social disparities between different regions of the
country, which ultimately contributed to the government's downfall" (Zaidi, 2005).
B. Political Factors
1. Rigged Elections
Ayub Khan's election as president in 1965 was widely seen as rigged. The electoral college of
Basic Democrats, which was elected through Ayub's Basic Democracies system, was accused of
being biased towards Ayub (Khan, 1965). As noted by political scientist Khalid bin Sayeed, "The
rigged election was a major blow to Ayub Khan's legitimacy and paved the way for his downfall"
(Sayeed, 1967).
2. Lack of Representation
East Pakistanis felt severely underrepresented in the government, military, and other sectors. As
noted by historian Ayesha Jalal, "The lack of representation created a sense of alienation and
disillusionment among East Pakistanis, which ultimately contributed to the secession of East
Pakistan in 1971" (Jalal, 2014).
3. Authoritarian Rule
Ayub Khan's government was highly centralized and authoritarian, stifling political opposition
and dissent. As noted by political scientist Lawrence Ziring, "The authoritarian rule created a
culture of fear and intimidation, which ultimately contributed to Ayub Khan's downfall" (Ziring,
1997).
The EBDO was a law passed in 1959, which allowed the government to disqualify politicians
from participating in elections. As noted by political scientist Khalid bin Sayeed, "The EBDO
was a major obstacle to democratic participation and created widespread discontent among
politicians and the general public" (Sayeed, 1967).
5. Centralization of Power
Ayub Khan's government was characterized by a high degree of centralization, with power
concentrated in the hands of the president and the military. As noted by historian Ayesha Jalal,
"The centralization of power created a sense of alienation and disillusionment among the
provinces, which ultimately contributed to the government's downfall" (Jalal, 2014).
6. Failure to Address Regional Disparities
Ayub Khan's government failed to address the significant regional disparities between East and
West Pakistan. As noted by economist Akbar Zaidi, "The failure to address regional disparities
created significant economic and social disparities between different regions of the country,
which ultimately contributed to the government's downfall" (Zaidi, 2005).
C. Social Factors
The people of East Pakistan felt severely neglected and exploited by the government. As noted
by historian Ayesha Jalal, "The sense of alienation and disillusionment among East Pakistanis
was a major factor in the eventual secession of East Pakistan in 1971" (Jalal, 2014). According to
a survey conducted by the Pakistan Institute of Public Opinion, 75% of East Pakistanis felt that
their region was being economically exploited by West Pakistan (Pakistan Institute of Public
Opinion, 1969).
The discontent among East Pakistanis and the general population created a fertile ground for
opposition movements to emerge. Politicians like Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Sheikh Mujibur
Rahman led these movements, which gained momentum and contributed to Ayub Khan's
downfall. As noted by political scientist Khalid bin Sayeed, "The rise of opposition movements
was a major challenge to Ayub Khan's authority and ultimately contributed to his downfall"
(Sayeed, 1967).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the downfall of Ayub Khan was a result of a combination of economic, political,
and social factors. As noted by economist Mahbub ul Haq, "The failure of Ayub Khan's regime
was a result of its inability to address the fundamental economic and social problems facing the
country" (Haq, 1963). The regime's authoritarian nature, its failure to address regional
disparities, and its inability to provide effective governance ultimately led to its downfall.
Introduction
Pakistan's transition to democracy was marked by significant challenges, which ultimately led to
the imposition of martial law in 1958. As noted by historian Ayesha Jalal, "The country's early
years were marked by a struggle for power between the Muslim League and the bureaucracy,
which ultimately led to the erosion of democratic institutions" (Jalal, 2014).
C. Social Factors
The people of East Pakistan felt severely neglected and exploited by the government. According
to a survey conducted by the Pakistan Institute of Public Opinion, 75% of East Pakistanis felt
that their region was being economically exploited by West Pakistan (Pakistan Institute of Public
Opinion, 1957). This sense of discontent was further exacerbated by the government's failure to
address the regional disparities in development.
The jute industry was a major source of foreign exchange earnings for Pakistan, but the benefits
of this industry were largely concentrated in West Pakistan. As noted by economist Mahbub ul
Haq, "The jute industry was a classic example of how the government's policies could be used to
exploit one region for the benefit of another" (Haq, 1963).
2. Rise of Opposition Movements
The discontent among East Pakistanis and the general population created a fertile ground for
opposition movements to emerge. Politicians like Fazlul Huq and Maulana Bhashani led these
movements, which gained momentum and contributed to the instability of the government.
Assassination of Democracy
The assassination of Liaquat Ali Khan in 1951 marked a significant turning point in Pakistan's
history. As noted by historian Lawrence Ziring, "The assassination of Liaquat Ali Khan created a
power vacuum that was ultimately filled by the bureaucracy and the military" (Ziring, 1997).
The formulation of the 1956 Constitution was marked by significant challenges, including the
disagreement between the Muslim League and the opposition parties. As noted by constitutional
expert Hamid Khan, "The 1956 Constitution was a compromise document that failed to address
the fundamental issues facing the country" (Khan, 2001).
The dismissal of the provincial assemblies in 1958 marked a significant blow to democratic
institutions in Pakistan. As noted by political scientist Khalid bin Sayeed, "The dismissal of the
provincial assemblies was a clear indication of the government's intention to concentrate power
in its own hands" (Sayeed, 1967).
Conclusion
In conclusion, the preliminary challenges for democracy in Pakistan were significant, and
ultimately led to the imposition of martial law in 1958. As noted by economist Mahbub ul Haq,
"The failure of democratic institutions in Pakistan was a result of a combination of factors,
including the concentration of power, regional disparities, and the government's failure to
address the fundamental issues facing the country" (Haq, 1963).
Introduction
The imposition of martial law in Pakistan in 1958 was a pivotal event that marked the beginning
of military intervention in the country's politics. As noted by historian Ayesha Jalal, "The
military's intervention in politics was a consequence of the country's fragile political institutions
and the failure of civilian governments to provide effective governance" (Jalal, 2014). This
chapter will examine the factors that led to the imposition of martial law in Pakistan.
Causes
The death of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah in 1948 created a power vacuum that was
ultimately filled by the bureaucracy and the military. As noted by political scientist Khalid bin
Sayeed, "Jinnah's death marked the beginning of the end of democratic institutions in Pakistan"
(Sayeed, 1967).
2. Provincialism
Provincialism was a major challenge for Pakistan, particularly due to the geographical separation
of East and West Pakistan. According to a survey conducted by the Pakistan Institute of Public
Opinion, 75% of East Pakistanis felt that their region was being economically exploited by West
Pakistan (Pakistan Institute of Public Opinion, 1957).
The constitution-making process in Pakistan was delayed for nine years due to key issues
between East and West Pakistan. As noted by constitutional expert Hamid Khan, "The failure to
adopt a constitution was a major factor in the imposition of martial law in 1958" (Khan, 2001).
Pakistan's early years were marked by extreme political instability, with frequent changes in
government. According to statistics, the country had seven prime ministers and eight cabinets
between 1947 and 1958.
The breakdown of the Muslim League (ML) played a crucial role in Pakistan's early political
instability. As noted by political scientist Lawrence Ziring, "The ML's failure to evolve from a
nationalist movement into a functioning political party capable of leading the nation was a major
factor in the imposition of martial law" (Ziring, 1997).
The interference by the head of state in Pakistan's politics was a major factor in the imposition of
martial law. According to a case study, the Governor-General of Pakistan, Ghulam Muhammad,
dismissed the Prime Minister, Khawaja Nazimuddin, in 1953, despite having majority support.
8. Role of Judiciary
The role of the judiciary in Pakistan was compromised, particularly in the early years following
independence. As noted by legal expert Hamid Khan, "The judiciary's failure to check the
arbitrary actions of the executive contributed to the imposition of martial law" (Khan, 2001).
The Pakistan Army's dominance in the country's politics was largely due to the perceived threat
from India. As noted by military analyst Hasan Askari Rizvi, "The Pakistan Army's India-centric
approach created a sense of insecurity among the population, which ultimately contributed to the
imposition of martial law" (Rizvi, 2003).
The Pakistan Army's homogeneity was a major factor in its dominance in the country's politics.
According to statistics, 75% of the army's officers came from Punjab and the North West Frontier
Province (NWFP).