Subversion of Democracy

The blatant subversion of democracy in Pakistan proves that despite tall claims, the foundation of a republic has not yet taken concrete shape in the neighbouring country. It’s disturbing to note that even in the 21st century, Pakistan is being run by the whims and fancies of a few powerful players, instead of being ruled by the constitution. Taking advantage of a weak democracy, the government had advised the President to dissolve the national assembly just to avoid the no confidence motion moved by the opposition. As per democratic norms, it is essential for a government to face the no trust motion whenever the opposition brings it in the house and after it is tabled in the house, the fate of the motion can only be decided by the votes of the members of the parliament. Under no circumstances can the presiding officer take a decision on the motion. But fearing defeat in the trust vote, the Pakistani Prime Minister Imran Khan first prevented voting on the no confidence motion in the house and then advised the President for the dissolution of the house. Clearly, the lack of courage shown by Pakistan's ruling party in facing the challenges has created an unprecedented constitutional crisis in the country. One hopes that the Pakistan Supreme Court will resolve the crisis amicably. Otherwise, the tussle of power in Pakistan may pose a danger to the world if the nuclear armaments of the country come under the hands of an unstable regime.

Power struggle is not a new phenomenon in Pakistan. Since its formation, the army has played a major role in running the country. As a result, most Pakistani Prime Ministers were selected by the army and not elected by the people. It may be argued that the mandate in the 2018 general election was in favour of Imran Khan’s party, the fact remains that the party received tactical support from the army. The army supported Imran Khan, considering his larger than life image as a cricketer, who was the captain of Pakistan cricket team which won the world cup in 1992. But Khan has failed miserably to lead his country towards a new dawn of peace, prosperity and progress. From day one, he began India-bashing following the dictates of the army, completely ignoring the country's financial situation which was near collapse. Thus, the hero of Pakistan’s cricketing folklore failed the people. Khan’s woes further increased when the allies left him alleging misrule. It was expected that Imran would pave the way for a smooth transition of power if he could not muster requisite support on the floor of the house. But by using undemocratic means to remain in power, the cricketer turned politician backstabbed the principles of democracy. Khan’s allegation of the role of foreign hands behind his ouster will do more harm than good to Pakistan. The situation can only be retrieved by installing a new government through democratic means and allowing it to work independently.