Democracy in Pakistan: The Missing Link?

BASIC DEMOCRACY: AYUB STYLE?

Asia has produced some remarkable people. One of them was Field Marshall Mohammad Ayub Khan. A power hungry soldier who came into power through a peaceful coup. He and General Iskandar Mirza laid the foundation of military’s intervention in our polity.

In his first address to the people of Pakistan, Ayub maintained that his “ultimate aim is to restore democracy but of the type that people can understand and work” (The Globe and Mail, Toronto, 28 October,1958). Eight months later, his administration announced what it called “Basic Democracy,” (a precursor [?] of Musharraf’s devolution plan) which allowed limited participation, to the elected representatives, in the management of the country.

Sincerely, Bilal Ahmad

Not to sound harsh but the current debate in the so-called democratic societies is to find a socially acceptable way of doing away with the grand democratic experiment. The debate about democaracy or lack thereof in Pakistan is like trying to discuss why most industry in Pakistan is not mechanised. The rest of the world has already progressed to being electronic or digital.

The debate would make sense if democracy were to be considered an evolutionary step in the maturation of a society rather than an endgame in itself.

later

-sac

When I look at this board, I feel proud. Pakistan`s future is in safe hands. It is safe in the hands of people like ylh, Sarwari, Fuzair, Urstruly, Ahmadb and Farangi Kush.

Pakistan Zindabad

Bilalji,

(various posts)

If I understand you correctly, you seem to suggest that continued military government will lead to the disintegration of Pakistan. I agree that, as a general rule, a democratically elected civilian govt is far more preferable to a military dictaorship.

However, lets look at what has happened in these past 53 years in Pakistan. Let me be the devil`s advocate for a minute. Historically, civilian govts in Pakistan have bought more chaos & disruption than military govts.

Other than Jinnah, Pakistan has failed to produce any civilian politician of stature that could galvanise the population towards a peaceful democracy that could keep the country together. Jinnah, alas died before the seedling of Pakistan could take firm root. Lets look at the civilians who popped up every now & then to hold the reigns of Pakistan--after Jinnah`s death.

The first real national election in Pakistan in the early 70`s was an absolute disaster. It disintegrated the country into two. The leaders of both wings--Sheikh Mujib & Bhutto refused to compromise with each other. They would rather see the country split into two, than share power. Ultimately, both were assassinated by generals who succeeded them. I dont pretend to know whether Bhutto was good or bad for Pakistan. Judging from the views of Pakistani Chowkwallahs, either they love or hate him.

The two main civilian leaders who popped up after Bhutto--BB & NS are universally hated by Pakistanis. If they have left any legacy, it has been a selfish loot & plunder of the nation for themselves & their cronies. Who is left? The bottom line is that historically speaking, the only time Pakistan has moved forward is during military dictatorships.

It seems like the majority of Pakistanis have lost faith in their civilian institutions.The democratic institution is so controlled & rigged by the feudals, that, at this time, a return to ``democracy`` will bring more of the same crap. The only institution that has a modicum of credibility to the people is the military. It is the one institution that has & will continue to prevent the country from disintegrating further.

Mushy seems to be the last real hope. He`s promised to tear down the rigged democratic process & form a new one--hopefully one that is fairer & not as rigged. However, it seems to me, many of you have already charged, tried & convicted him as having failed.

Whats your alternative? An intellectual, theoritical debate on how things should be? Its one thing to have this debate in the cyberworld (btw, its very healthy that you do so, I have no problem with that). However, theory is one thing. Putting it into practice in the real world is a very different ballgame.

However imperfect Mushy is, he is at least trying to restore institutions. He`s promised to leave once there is some solid ground under Pakistan`s feet. If he leaves now, Pakistan is going to sink in the quicksand that she finds herself standing on. Give the guy a chance!

If I understand Umairr correctly, thats what he`s been saying all along. I realise I`m not qualified to be judge or juror. But IMHO, his logic & analysis makes the most sense to me.

bahmad # 409

Now you are talking.

I think you are right when you say that people are led to beleive that they dont deserve basic human rights.

``Is Qaom ko danda hi theek kar sakta hay`` is oft repeated phrase and I ashamedly admit that it is widely accepted too.

Doesnt it double the burden of resposibility on some of us?

ASIAN VALUE? PAKISTANI VALUES?

In justifying their authoritarianism, many Asian leaders have often claimed that human rights in the areas of political and civil liberties are less relevant and less appropriate in Asia. Claims for Asian Values have two major difficulties: (1) Asia is a continent of great variations; (2) many so-called Asian values exist in many non-Asian societies too. Hence, in his article, “Human Rights and Asian Values . . . .`` Armartya Sen maintains:

“It is important to state at the outset that there are no quintessential values that separate the Asians as a group from people in the rest of the world and which fit all parts of this immensely large and heterogeneous population. The temptation to see Asia as a single unit reveals a distinctly Eurocentric [or Orientalist] perspective.”

Sen further maintains that “Civil rights and tolerance have roots in both Asian and Western traditions.”

Please think about some Pakistani values? Are these values unique to Pakistan? Why Pakistanis don`t seem to value freedom and democracy? Is it because our leaders tell us that we are no good for them?

Sincerely, Bilal Ahmad

In response to Amit (Reply # 406)
Dear Amit:

Your statement: ``. . . both India and Pakistan have their operatives who carry out these bomb blasts, terrorist attacks etc in the corresponding country. Given the poverty in either country, it is not terribly difficult to get some local cooperation for a price.``

My reply: I respect your balanced views. Nonethless, I am inclined not to accept the alleged role of either ISI and RAW in India and Pakistan respectively. If this is so well known, why can`t the governments with so many resources cannot control it. It is, however, possible that 5-10 percent of various terrorist attacks are supported by these agencies.

But, if your thesis is correct this only suggests the bankruptcy of our governments, particularly the coercive state apparatus.

Sincerely, Bilal Ahmad

In response to fairdinkum (Reply # 397)
Dear Fairdinkum

Permit me to summarize first. In response to General Musharraf’s statement – ``Let me tell you today that even after 2002 there will be checks and balances and nobody can reverse the process of reforms and restructuring (Dawn, December 25, 2000)`` – I identified three possibilities for his prophecy to become a reality. These are: (1) he remains in power after 2002; (2) another military regime takes charge after 2002; (3)a new government decides not to dismantle them. In addition, I called for additional thoughts from other Chowkwallas.

In response to your suggestion that Musharraf may amend the Constitution to give the military a permanent “guardianship” role in the politics of Pakistan, I am almost certain of its becoming a reality (unless stopped by some sane Pakistani forces). The military has to find a way to reproduce itself and its future designs. In following the lead of the Western powers (and, in recent decades, of countries like China and most probably India), Pakistan is on the verge of becoming an important supplier of arms and ammunition to many Muslim (and non-Muslim) countries. It is a shame that a nation that calls itself Islamic is heading towards an immoral way of making money. But, let me ask: Do we as a nation have the capacity to see the dangers involved in a military-controlled politics?

I agree with you that a formal-legal entry of the military in the National Security Council is (most) likely to end the need for coup d’etats. I also agree with you that this may pave the way for the further (dis)integration of Pakistan (depending on how the benefits distribute across the socio-spatial makeup of Pakistan).

Let me say something about your additional concerns and questions.

Your ask: “Do you think politicians would agree to such an arrangement? I guess military would “buy” certain politicians to go along with this kind of arrangement… but wouldn’t it make the nationalists/ethno-politics in Pakistan even stronger?”

My reply: Most Pakistani politicians care about their personal interests, and to a certain but lesser degree about the interests of their constituents. The military regime is most likely to buy their support and allegiance (most probably through persuasion and peanuts). Yes, this arrangement may lead to ethno-nationalist politics in a few limited parts of Pakistan. Please remember the Pakistani politicians and the military has the capacity to crush it by force.

You ask: “Why can’t the military and the hundreds of so-called “intellectuals” who surround the current regime understand the multicultural, multinational nature of our society? Are they underestimating the likelihood of break-up of Pakistan?”

My reply: The current regime is doing the best what a dictatorial centralized regime could do within an authoritarian political culture. I am not aware of any significant subnational proactive social movement (Ponam is an elite organization. It is quite at the moment. Why? Who knows? Karachi may continue to be a hot area depending upon other arrangements at both regional and national levels).

Your statement: “I hear statements such as “Pakistan is here to stay!” quite often on this site. Historically, geo-political maps in South Asia and elsewhere in the world have experienced frequent changes. 53 odd years ago there was no such thing as “Pakistan”. What makes us believe that “Pakistan is here to stay!”? What is going for us as a nation? Are we prosperous? Do we have an identity matrix, which appeals to an overwhelming majority of Pakistani citizens? Do we have justice? Do we have law and order in the society? Are there prospects/opportunities for our children in Pakistan? Do we feel safe, and protected in Pakistani society? Do we see moral and ethical values in our society worth holding on to?”

My reply: Pakistan will survive. It will maintain the status quo as long as it doesn’t engage in a major war with India. Indians know that even a half-dead Pakistan is good for them as a buffer-state. The issue of nationhood is different. We are a multi-cultural country with a myth of being a truly Pakistani nation. Musharraf still has an opportunity to make a dent and engage in a political process to pave the way for a “pluralistic nation-state.” The rest of your questions are also valid. Some of these problems could be alleviated by cultivating a democratic culture and political organization that prioritizes citizenship and human rights over the electoral politics.

Fairdinkum, we need more people like your father. As far as I am concerned, I view your father as a winner because he did not lose his honor, soul, and integrity. Your mother took a wise, but in some ways a painful, decision. I, however, can understand your pessimism. Let us not lose hope. In following Yasser, I feel like saying . . . .

Sincerely, Bilal Ahmad

Re:ahmadb#403

Bilal, both India and Pakistan have their operatives who carry out these bomb blasts, terrorist attacks etc in the corresponding country. Given the poverty in either country, it is not terribly difficult to get some local cooperation for a price. The only way to stop this is for both the countries to maintain restraint.

In my opinion, the Lashkar-e-Toiba`s recent attack on the Red Fort in Delhi was an absolutely unnecessary escalation when everyone is moving towards peace. These guys maintain a high profile presence at Muridke near Lahore, and their top guy Prof. Hafeez Saeed is very close to the security establishment in Pakistan. The Pakistan government is responsible for controlling and subduing the Lashkar-e-Toiba. They can easily do that if they want to.

Once the Lashkar attack took place, India had to respond in a strong manner. Otherwise, the Lashkar folks would be encouraged to repeat their actions. That would have serious repercussions as the violence would spill over from Kashmir to the rest of India. That could eventually unleash communal forces that could be uncontrollable. Hence, it was necessary for India to nab the assailants and respond quickly to send a message to back off. It is tragic but then that is why South Asia is the armpit of the world.

Re:SameerJB#367

Sameer,

Thanks for a very enlightening post. Please consider submitting an article to chowk on this topic. I don`t know about Pakistanis, but it would be an eye opener for Indians. Most Indians do not know how and in what fashion, the desis of Pakistan/India embraced Islam. Moreover, what was their relationship with the muslim rulers at Delhi as well as the rulers of Afghanistan/Iran/Central Asia ? We hear generalities but we do not know of how millions and millions of Punjabis, Pathans, Sindhis etc. converted and then interacted with the Afghan/Mughal rulers. Indians have all kinds of erroneous views about Pakistanis, which have been expressed on Chowk such as ``displaced Mughal`` syndrome etc. An article on the above topic would be a great contribution in this regard.

THE AUTONOMY QUESTION

Please read the following:

“Replying to a question on full autonomy, he [General Moin Haider, the Interior Minister] said that after the LB polls a complete package of provincial autonomy will be announced and implemented. Such a package will be acceptable to the people, as the LB elections will ensure power at grass-root level” (The Nation, December 27, 2000).

Comment: A few days back, General Musharraf had declared that a provincial plan will be announced on August 14, 2001. General Haider’s statement vaguely suggests that an outline of the Provincial Plan is already there.

Is Air Marshall Asghar Khan working behind the scene? I will look in my archives for his views about the regional question.

I reckon that the present regime may succeed in implementing the local bodies (partial devolution) plan.

If the provincial autonomy question is tied with the institutionalization of power at the local level (which I think is a good idea) then we should examine the local bodies plan much more seriously. It is still not too late to influence the Musharraf regime.

I don’t expect the politicians to engage in a full-scale movement for electoral politics. Electoral politics, however, is not a solution of Pakistan’s difficulties. We need much more than that – we need (a true) democracy as Musharraf had promised on October 17, 1999.

As we have been developing a critique of the present regime, we should not spare the politicians too. They need to be told what we expect from them. The politicians, in my view, should not take the National Security Council issue any lightly if the military is a major part of Pakistan`s problems.

Sincerely, Bilal Ahmad

BOMB BLASTS! HOW TO CHECK THEM?

Please read the following:

“Federal Interior Minister Lt. Gen. (Retd.) Moinuddin Haider on Tuesday expressed deep concern over the bomb blasts at various places in the country during the past few days and said, Indian RAW agency may be responsible for these blasts” (The Nation, December 27, 2000).

Comment: Is this good politics? Is this a politics of tit-for-tat? Is this an easy way out to shrug responsibility?

The military lives on a big chunk of our national income. Shouldn’t our borders be better protected (if there is an iota of truth in the allegation)?

Sincerely, Bilal Ahmad

Krashid #401

I thank you for your kind words. Rashid, I lived in karachi for 24 years of my life. I have known many ``mohajirs`` who have stuck to their principles... but he ironically such people in our society are referred to as idiots! During my last visit to Pakistan I happened to be in the company of some business men. They were talking about the days when Jinnah Terminal was being buit. One of them proudly proclaimed that he provided sub standard material and his check was cleared too. The rest looked at him with solemn faces as if he is the smartest business man on earth.

The moral fiber in our society has decayed to an extent that ``rishwat`` is an acceptable norm. People proudly tell about the ``ooper ki kamai`` of their sons.

Krashid, why did we create Pakistan?

Beharam #393 you ask ``I heard on BBC news report that around 40% of Pakistanis are clinically depressed. Why?``

Because of the rest 10% are mullahs who are totally insane, and the remaining 50% are women who drive men crazy in this sexually repressed, ideologically confused, society.

(OK, OK this is just a joke)

Fairdinkum #397

Very moving story of your parents.

I hope you will continue the tradition of not budging under pressure.

One of you gave his life (Z A Bhutto) and the rest of family is suffering.

Historically Sindhis have a tradition of resistance.

Wish you well.

Aisha Kirkiri Sarwari:

I like you for your zeal in defending Pakistan. Please refrain from calling Pakistanis ``Indian agents`` (or eqquivalent) when they differ from your views.

sincerely