Democracy is a system that promotes responsible governance, rule of law, human rights, civic participation, and peaceful power transfers through electoral processes, fostering a stable and peaceful society. Despite much discussion and opposition over the nature of democracy, the majority of nations worldwide continue to operate under this system. Out of 167 countries worldwide, 96 have opted for democracy to govern their nations. If the figures are computed, 57% of nations have chosen democracy, 13% have chosen autocracy, and 28% displayed characteristics of both autocracy and democracy. This enormous success and the quick development of democracy over the past four decades are inextricably linked.
Pakistan was established as a Nation-State to ensure the supremacy of the people, equal rule of law, active citizen participation in politics, and protection of human rights. From the very outset, the founding father of Pakistan Muhammad Ali Jinnah emphasized the importance of equality of rights and freedom of faith. He stressed upon the need of a constitution based on consensus, aiming to achieve a high quality of democracy. Post Jinnah’s death, political polarization and strife led to delays in framing the constitution. The Objective Resolution, which remain a preamble of the 1973 constitution, outlines the principles of democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance, and social justice as enunciated by Islam. Nevertheless, democracy exists as a temporary transition between quasi or full-blown military rule in Pakistan. Over 32 out of 76 years of Pakistan’s history were plagued by martial law, with constitution abrogated or suspended, denying fundamental rights to citizens, resulting in immeasurable losses to democracy. On top of that, there has been a kind of quasi-democracy in the country since 2008, where strong but unelected and unaccountable state institutions, particularly the military and judiciary, have undermined, sabotaged, and destabilized democratic administrations.
Pakistan has experienced numerous political, economic, institutional, democratic, and social upheavals due to military intervention, political polarization, authoritarian leadership, bureaucratic red tape, constitutional crisis, feudalism, mismanagement, accountability rhetoric, and underperforming Judiciary. Economic and social issues have arisen in Pakistan as a result of the public’s declining faith in democracy and the military. Electoral rights have suffered as a result of the political and military establishment in Pakistan being accused of interfering with the electoral process. In the line of kowtowing to the military, the elected governments have been undemocratic, where democracy is not just about elections but suppressing the opposition and hushing the media. This has led to a domination of parties with no inner party democracy, paralyzing policy-making and creating dissatisfaction. It is no sarcasm that the political opposition in Pakistan always takes a holier-than-thou stance, insists on seeing the military establishment as its harbinger into power.
Despite its flaws, shortcomings, and setbacks, democracy is the only system of governance that can get Pakistan back on track. The majority of people’s freedom is best granted by democracy, which has continuously been demonstrated to be the most successful form of government. Democracy is a beneficial form of governance because it incorporates the roles and interests of many people in deciding how a nation is to be governed.
Pakistan’s institutional structure has to be drastically changed in order to maintain democracy. To achieve a future for the country, the basic rights of the people to govern themselves must be unreservedly and unequivocally recognized. Democracy is often confusing, but in Pakistan’s circumstances, and the structures supporting it such as the constitution, parliament, and judiciary, have been systematically weakened. The Quaid’s ideals have been faded, making them questionable as a frame of reference. It would be a mistake to compromise further on his faith in democracy as the only course for Pakistan to follow. Pakistan’s deviations from universally accepted principles have made it an anachronism in today’s world moving towards political and social emancipation.
To develop democracy based on excellent governance, strengthening the democratic institution and implementing socio-political changes is crucial. A successful governance charter should include the rule of law, an accountability culture, institutional harmony, political stability, and effective public service delivery. Political stability, political education, involved citizens, free, fair elections, merit-prioritizing political parties, and a sense of public duty are essential for good administration. Institutional cohesiveness and responsiveness are crucial for nation growth, while a culture of accountability increases transparency and merit in national affairs. A just society emphasizes the rule of law and legal equity, and good governance requires its enforcement.
Pakistan needs a national consensus to set its direction, based on its founding principles and past 76 years of experience. The constitution needs to be overhauled to empower the people and federating units. Provincial autonomy has been a topic of political rhetoric, and even those advocating for it have not presented a realistic power division scheme. Pakistan can move towards stability and consolidation by giving constituent units a strong stake in its strength and vitality. This includes economic development in backward provinces and regions, as well as a proper devolution of powers from the center. Democracy requires participation at all levels of government, federal, provincial and local. Freedom from want for millions living in urban slums and less developed regions is essential, as is freedom for creative expression that contributes to the country’s dynamism. Pakistan must emulate democratic principles and adhere to democratic norms to ensure a more purposeful and productive future.
Despite its flaws, shortcomings, and setbacks, democracy is the only system of governance that can get Pakistan back on track. The majority of people’s freedom is best granted by democracy, which has continuously been demonstrated to be the most successful form of government. Democracy is a beneficial form of governance because it incorporates the roles and interests of many people in deciding how a nation is to be governed. Democracy is often chaotic, but if citizens are well-educated and elected leaders have the will to make tough choices, this chaos may be mitigated. All things considered, if freedom and civil rights are emphasized, it is difficult to argue that any form of governance is superior to democracy.
