Saturday, December 5, 2009

Analysis of democracy vs dictatorship by Qasim Razza

The difference between a democracy and a dictatorship is that in a democracy you vote first and take orders later; in a dictatorship you don't have to waste your time voting. people welcomed the democracy, PPP or PML N, now there are more stack holders, as they have coalition, so they are more focused in getting ministries, and have their candidates nominated, rather than looking towards record ‘mehangai’ which we have seen in last 9 months. The political people are good in ‘Bander-Baant’, they don’t have any idea, what is economy, they don’t know what are the factors behind it, it was Sir Musharraf, who understood so many things, like he used to have so many facts about dams, about growth, etc etc on his mind. Here we take example of our ex-president of Pakistan pervaiz musharaf, Being dictator he had so many democratic habits to bear criticism (unlike zia) or even these Nawaz shareef , zardari or BB Shaheed. I will be very much honest, if u remembers, all these people used to say so many bad things to Sir Musharraf.

But Pervaiz Musharraf never bothered to reply these people in same tone or at their level, now this is one of the very important point people. He had a lot of flexibility to accommodate people no matter how those people used to be personal at times, like AITEZAZ AHSAN, he fall from such a level to such a low level, being personal…similarly so many other people, but did our ex-president ever went to that level ? Now this habit of him made us realize that how personality wise this person was. Mr nawaz shareef, in starting 5 years never gave any statement when he was in saudi arab, but day he landed to London, and then later on Pakistan, day and night, sleeping or waking, he had only one thing on his mind, and every statement or speech reflected something called ‘‘personal’’.

Now if you are claiming to be a leader of the nation, then you need to be clear in your concepts, what is good for the nation and what is bad. Like our ex-president only focused on 3 points always:

1)    Strong economy

2)    No  Mullah

3)    No rubbish statements for political opponents

Then if you people remember, in democratic times (1988-1999), except PTV, no channel was ever allowed to be on air? Only PTV showing, that everything is going perfect, mian sb or bibi did this and this whole day, and everything is going perfect in country. It was Sir Musharraf who initiated this media freedom, and because our nation was getting this freedom for the very first time, so what they showed on channels all the times, was mind blowing. i will quote an example for this media freedom in this way, like if someone was hungry for so many years and you gave him all of a sudden an unlimited food, what he is gonna do ? Surely he will over eat because he got it first time…and all the political / financial parties own these channels, and what they did, they never behaved in neutral way, round the clock propaganda, showing everything in negative way, making people frustrated for their own political benefits.

PPP or democracy people have this argument that oil prices raised bcoz of international rise…. I have strong argument for this thing too.
If PML-Q used to rise prices or let’s say musharraf used to rise them, u used to say to people that this govt has failed…. no matter that rise was bcoz of international market too, but u used to project with help of media that its musharraf , who raised these prices.
In 1999 we had almost per litre petrol price almost Rs. 32 (may be one or two rupees up or down)

In November 2007, at the end of shaukat aziz govt, it was almost Rs. 58 per litre. , In 8 years Rs.58 - Rs..32 = Rs 26. So in 8 years (including all international petrol rising prices), we experienced 26 Rs. rises. Means Rs.. 3.25 / year rise. Now in January I do accept that record rise in international market occurred, because record was broken every day, so record falling of prices expected too, this democratic govt kept on rising prices, one day 3 Rs., one day 4 yrs, and they were waiting for that point that when it will fall down (means no more going up), that day finally came, and they increased the price rs. 10 (which has never been done in history of Pakistan, Rs. 10 all of a sudden).

 

                                                                                          

DONT know how people can become so thankless? May be they are expecting that people who say ROTI KAPRA MAKAAN (Bread Cloth Shelter) are so sincere in providing them every such things for free? And now they are getting back to their senses, and some have started saying that PPP has decided not to give us roti kapra and makaan , rather they are more interested in snatching these things (in case if someone has already had it by mistake)

In the end I would like to mention, that personally I am not against anyone, we all are human beings, but we must always remember that who did what in his own time.
We can surely afford ”democratic dictatorship of Musharraf” and cannot afford ” such democracy which is based on dictatorship”, And I would like to add and it follows as:

 “A good dictatorship” or “A poor democracy” or vice versa. What all citizens want is a good system - a good law and order - a good sovereignty of country where government is liable to protect the rights of its citizens

 

 


We are not concerned with democracy or dictatorship, we just want Pakistan as the first priority of our leaders.



Today, unfortunately, Pakistan is passing through difficult, delicate and sensitive phase of its history. It’s now not a question of ruling the country, but the intensity of problems demand that now it is the question of survival of Pakistan. Pakistan is facing intense external and internal problems. The biggest problem that, now, Pakistan is facing is terrorism suicide attacks. A sense and feelings of insecurity is expanding among the people of Pakistan and now they are no more trusting on government for provision of security. In order to end the terrorism military operation is at its full scale in FATA areas. But this operation has resulted in displacement of nearly three million people from this region. Now the government is trying to manage one of the biggest displacement of the world has ever seen, over three million people have left the tribal areas and Malakand division. These people are now in various camps in Sawabi, Mardan and other parts of NWFP. The provision of food, shelter, health facilities has the biggest problems that now Pakistan is facing. These people are living a very pathetic life, as there is no clean water, lack of electricity and hot climate is unbearable to the people. Children are becoming ill. This is the biggest displacement of mass of people after independence. The issue concerning the internal displaced people (IDPs) is not simply that of displacement; but it’s also of poverty. Friends of Pakistan have promised to give 4 billion dollar to help IDPs but till now we have received only fraction of it. Then there is problem of rehabilitation of these displaced people. There have been rallies against the rehabilitation of these people in Sindh, which last question of the unity of Pakistan, as these people are Pakistani. The law and order situation has blocked the way of investment. Rather people are shifting their assets to foreign countries due to uncertainty instability in the country. This has also badly affected the economic situation of Pakistan. Recently the budget has been announced for year 2009-10. Total outlay of Budget 2009-10 is Rs2.489 trillion, out of which Rs50 billion has been allocated for the displaced of operation in Malakand Division. In order to fulfill its demand Pakistan has borrowed money from IMF. In budget, budget deficit is 4.9% of GDP. The government is aiming to fill this gap partly with help of friends of Pakistan and partly from internal resources. If friends of Pakistan would not be able to help then it would borrow from IMP which further burden our meager economy. Similarly there are other issues which seek attention.

Conclusion:

Pakistan is facing many internal and external problems. There is American pressure and now the war against terror has become our own war and our politicians have to accept this. They should unite on one plate form. Political parties should support military operation because it’s a question of survival of Pakistan. The politicians should forget internal conflicts and should think for Pakistan first and foremost. Today, being a nation, we have the challenges of inequality between provinces, regional disparities, economic imbalances, poverty, and inflation and many other issues. Every institution of Pakistan should work with collaboration and cooperation. Military should respect the power of vote of people. They should give the time for democracy to flourish. But in today’s difficult time they both must work with each other and should support each other. The issues should be resolved through negotiation and bilateral diplomacy. Our foreign policy should be free and it should take decision in keeping countries benefits. Being a nation we have to pass this phase with courage. We have to prove ourselves as a nation, we have to fight this war, we have to save Pakistan, we have to once again sew the seed of peace, love, cooperation, respect, equality and above all seek help from Allah Almighty. May Allah help us to face this difficult time with courage, prayers and above all as one Muslims and one nation…AMEEN!

Ayub Khan-The tyrant dictator


Ayub khan was the first dictator. He serve army from 1928 to 1958. During his tenure of presidency of Pakistan, government corruption in addition to an environment of repression of free speech and political freedoms increased unrest. Criticisms of his sons and family's personal wealth increased, especially his son's actions after his father's election in the allegedly rigged 1964 Presidential elections against Fatima Jinnah is a subject of criticism by many writers. Gohar Ayub, it is said led a victory parade right into the heartland of Opposition territory in Karachi, in a blatantly provocative move and the civil administrations failure to stop the rally led to a fierce clashes between opposing groups with many locals being killed. Gohar Ayub also faced criticisms during that time on questions of family corruption and cronyism through his business links with his father-in-law retired Lt. general habibullah khan. One Western commentator in 1969 estimated Gohar Ayub's personal wealth at the time at $4 million dollars, while his family's wealth was put in the range of $10–$20 million dollars.
Ayub began to lose both power and popularity. On one occasion, while visiting East Pakistan, there was a failed attempt to assassinate him, though this was not reported in the press of the day.[
Ayub was persuaded by underlings to award himself the Nishan-e-Pakistan, Pakistan's highest civil award, on the grounds that to award it to other heads of state he should have it himself and also promoted himself to the rank of Field Marshal. He was to be Pakistan's second Field Marshal, if the first is regarded as Field Marshal Sir Claude Auchinleck (1884-1981), supreme commander of military forces in India and Pakistan in the lead-up to independence in 1947.
Aggravating an already bad situation, with increasing economic disparity in the country under his rule, hoarding and manipulation by major sugar manufacturers resulted in the controlled price of 1 kg sugar to be increased by 1 rupee and the whole population took to the streets. As Ayub's popularity plummeted, he decided to give up rule.
In 1971 when war broke out, Ayub Khan was in and did not comment on the events of the war. He died in 1974.

Democracy vs Dictatorship-the analysis

It is difficult to associate the terms democracy and dictatorship with one another. Despite the obvious contradiction, the two have gelled in a few countries that have made the proponents of democracy particularly uncomfortable. Recent waves of democracy in many troubled countries gave optimists the brief feeling of relief as accountable governments would be the standard ruling form. However, dictatorships have emerged in some countries under the guise of democratic rule.
Dictatorships often occur when a nation is economically and politically unstable. Imagine the next time you step into the voting booth your ballot only lists one candidate to choose from. Or perhaps your ballot lists four candidates, but they are all from the Liberal party. Dictatorships are one party political systems that are ruled by one leader or an elite group of people under the principle of authoritarianism. Some feel that dictatorships are the most effective form of government because decisions are made quickly and extreme nationalism benefits the military and economy. These individuals value order, nationalism, and authority. However, these systems often result in violence, repression of the public, and few provisions for changes to the system. Democracies are multiparty political systems that rest on the principle of rule by the people. Most people that live in democracies have civil liberties1, and political rights2. Individuals who feel that multi-party systems are the best government value equality, accountability, and freedom. Nations that have multiparty political systems will meet the needs of the public better through the means of political equality, a higher standard of livings, and civil liberties.
Democracy has been defined as the government of the people, for the people, by the people. In such a Government, people are themselves the rulers and the ruled. Government is formed through elections. All the adult citizens cast votes and elect their representatives. Thus it is a people's government. It is run through their elected representatives. Dictatorship is that form of Government in which there is centralization of power. All power rests in the hands of one single individual. The people have no say in the matters of Government. The main advantages of democracy are three. First, in this form of Government people enjoy a great deal of liberty. They get every freedom for self-expression. They can criticize the Government through the press and the platform. The Government can be dismissed at the will of the people. In such a Government, people are all-powerful. It is they who make and dismiss it.

Democracy vs dictatorship

Democracy has been defined as government of the people, for the people and by the people. In a democratic situation, government is formed through elections. For this all the adult citizens cast votes and elect their representatives. Thus this is a people’s government and it is run through the representatives elected by the people.
Dictatorship is a form of government which has a centralization of power and is run by one political party. All power rests in the hand of a single person and people have no say in the matters of government.
Dictatorship and democracy have many similarities and a lot of differences. But I would like to prefer democratic form of government. There are three main advantages of democracy. First, in democratic form of government, people enjoy a great time of liberty. They enjoy every freedom of self expression. The people can criticize the government through the press and the platform. The people can dismiss the government when they want to dismiss. In this condition of government all the people are equally powerful. It is they who make and dismiss the government. Secondly, in democratic form of government all the people are treated equally. There is no difference on the basis of caste, creed or sex. All the citizens have equal freedom and opportunity. Even a sweeper can become the president of the country. Thirdly, democratic form of government is best suited for a country in peace times. Sound foundations of nation are laid through the democratic form of government. Everything is greatly and easily achieved through the cooperation of the people. Cooperation of the people is the basic principle of the democratic government.
In the democratic form of government, press and media are free to write and show anything about the government to the people. No is preferred by the government. Democracy gives the opportunities to everyone to come in the political fields. The people have the power to dismiss the government if the government is not doing well job. In the democratic form the government the winner party takes the charges of the government and the defeated one sits in the opposition. The defeated parties do protest against the plans which are disliked by them. The job opportunities are equally provided to all the people preferring their education. In democracy, the government provides funds for the poor people. That is why I like the democratic form of the government.

Chaudhry brothers era


The Pakistan Muslim Leagu (Q) is a conservation political party in Pakistan. The present form of PML(Q) was formed prior to 2007 general elections held by Gn. Pervaz Mushraf. The party was formed by the president Pervaiz Mushraf who decided to reform the Pakistan Muslim Leage(N). His secretary gave the idea to change Pakistan muslim league (N) into a true party Pakistan Muslim League (Q). Here the Q standing for Quid e Azam.
The main members of the party are Chuadhry Pervaz Elahi and Chuadhry Shajaat Hussain. The functions of PML(N)were broked away to form Pakistan Muslim League (Q) in 2001.They were staunch supporters of pervaz mushraf and thought that he was the mentor of their party. Mushraf himself was not the member the party and remained neutral as a President of Pakistan.
Later on some political leaders joined Pakistan Muslim League (Q) electing Ch. Shajaat as a party leader. In legislative elections, the party won 126 seats out of 342 in 2002. In general elections, PML(Q) won only 49 elected seat and defeated by Pakistan People’s party.
Ch. Shajaat was elected unopposely as a president of PMLQ and Mushahid Hussain Syed was also elected unopposed as a Secretary general of the party.
Ch. Brothers are supporters of Mushraf in every step as Ch. Shajaat Hussain’s father Chuadhry Zahoor Elahi was big supporter of General Ayub Khan. Ch. Zahoor Elahi opposed Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto joining Zia’s government after his death, Ch. Shajaat Hussain continued to support Zia and his policies.
Ch Monis elahi, the son of Ch. Pervaz Elahi lost Provincial assembly seat in Lahore and won a seat from gujrat and was elected for Punjab assembly for the first time.
Chaudhry brothers have been accused of some financial scandals but none of them were ever proven or even pursed or trailed by government.

Ayub Khan


Ayub khan was born in Rehana near Haripur Pakistan, on 14 may 1907. He was the first military ruler, serving as the President of Pakistan (1958 - 1969). He became the first Commander in Chief of Pakistan army in 1951. he was the youngestl general and self-appointed Field Marshal in Pakistan's military history. Although Ayub Khan's military career was not extra ordinary or brilliant but he was promoted over several senior officers with distinguished careers. Ayub Khan was selected because of his reputation and his capabilities of a good administrator, his presumed lack of political ambition, and his lack of powerful group backing. After short time of his promotion he become a very power full political figure. Infact Ayub Khan was responsible for seeking and securing military and economic assistance from the United States and for aligning Pakistan with it in international affairs.
Before 3 months of the end of the tenure as commander in chief, ayub khan was declared as martial Law commander in October 1958, by Iskandar mirza, the president of Pakistan. After taking over control of Pakistan Army, Ayub khan deposed Iskandar Mirza on 27 of October 1958. He was welcomed by Pakistan as Pakistan was going through a very unstable political environment, after the independence.
In 1964, ayub called for the election of president of Pakistan, as he had his popularity at his peak with confidence. His confidence was proven true as he won the election of presidency of Pakistan on 2nd January 1965. He won with 64% of the votes. It was said that these election was not fair as ayub won from Fatimah Jinnah the sister of the founder Muhammad Ali Jinnah, which was not expected.
As a president of Pakistan, ayub khan allied with the global U.S military, against the Soviet Union which led to a alot of economic aid from U.S and European nations. As a result the industrial sector of Pakistan developed rapidly. As a result major improvement in economy of Pakistan. Inequality in distribution of wealth appeared to a big problem in the later stage of his presidency.
In 1956 in London during a meeting with chief engineer of nuclear power of Pakistan, an offer was purposed to Ayub khan of developing nueclear technology, which was disapproved by Ayub khan. The turning point of his rule was the war of 1965 between India and Pakistan. In 1961 Ayub khan appointed his close friend as a head of space program called National Aeronautics and Space Administration (SUPARCO). It was Ayub khan tenure, SUPARCO began training of Pakistani scientists and engineers in the NASA head quarter.
In 1969, he negotiated with the opposition alliance, except for Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Maulana Bhashani. 25 march 1969 Ayub khan made Yahya Khan the Commander in Chief General,and and over the control to him.

Democracy-A government of the people, for the people and by the people


Pakistan has been on worlds map for now more than 60 years.
For 60 years since its founding in the partitioning of British India, Pakistan has seesawed between military dictatorships and elected governments, and now new hope for stability is being placed on the chance that democracy there can be revived.

Only democracy can change a group of people into NATION.

AS from its definition ‘government of the people’ , means it’s the people who would be governing source, their interests would be kept on top of all priorities. But all would be happening through the GOVERNING BODY which too will be selected by the people of the country, and it would also be accountable in front of people if it makes any decision that affects the people’s interest and disturbs the sovereignty of the country. So in the nutshell its Peoples RULE.

’By the people’ means governing body comprises of people who have been nominated by the each region, and the are elected after fair elections, so there is no chance of any favoritism or discrimination. This is important because there is less chance of rebels.

”For the people” means that everything ,every decision would be made in best interest of the people, government would be serving the people.

Just by knowing the true definition of democracy even an illetrate man can come up with DEMOCRACY being the supreme and sound system.

If we just look back and throw light on Pakistan democratic history we can pretty much get the conclusion.
ZULFIQAR ALI BHUTTO was a democratic leader rather first success story of Pakistan. Even today people remember him as a leader whose first priority was the people of Pakistan.
Hatred for the government is a common practice here is Pakistan, but to be honest if the government’s foundation is laid upon true democracy ,there is not even a single reason why would people be having such feelings. Only democracy is the solution of all the problems in Pakistan.

All the previous governments before MUSHARAFF were supporting Taliban against Northern Alliance in Afghanistan. Under heavy American pressure, his turnaround of this policy was hailed in the West but loathed by the Pakistani masses, which see him as a traitor of Pakistani national interests, as his policy resulted in bringing the Northern Alliance into power, which had never been friendly to Pakistan. He did this to present his credentials of faithfulness to the United States in accordance with his January 12 speech promises. From that USA Afghan war till now there has been heavy blood shed in Pakistan, suicide killings, LAL MASjid, and many more, people of Pakistan are portrayed as TERRORISTS , is this in INTREST
of Pakistani nation? Certainly not. This was the biggest decision in Pakistan history and most of us yet don’t know the cause why there are suicide attacks in Pakistan. Had there been a democratic RULE these problems would never have been arisen.

The Economist has summarized his 'achievements' in the following words: "In three years as Pakistan's leader, General Musharraf has largely bleached out the Islamist colour given to the armed forces by a former dictator, Zia ul Haq. The top ranks have been purged; many lower-level officers with over-zealous views are being discreetly retired."

We know how to point at Government failure , we being from literate lot should be able to know the reason behind it. Pakistan’s foundation was laid on democracy. Other form of governments like dicataorship, military rule have all failed. DEMOCRACY, rather true democracy is the ultimate solution to pakistans all problems. People would work with their full zeal only if the have faith on the RULING part of the government that would respect their interests and would try to comfort the nation.

Army-The ever present dictator in Pakistan



Since 14th August,1947 when Pakistan came into being, its army has played a very vital and critical role in the working of the government. This is quite unfortunate as this country was established on Islamic Ideology which clearly favors democratic form of government. After the death of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah on September 11, 1948, the democratic government started to become weak and army started playing an active role in the functioning of the government.

Pakistan had to wait until 1958 when the then Chief of Army Staff General Ayub Khan disposed off the democratic government and imposed Marshall Law. Three Marshall Laws were to follow in the next 40 odd years imposed by Yahya Khan, Zia-ul-Haq and Pervez Musharraf respectively.



Even during the era of democratic governments like that of Benazir Bhutto, Nawaz Sharif and Pml-q, army has played its part in developing foreign policy of the country, taking important decisions and taking steps on its own. The so called establishment has even made its own democratic leaders in order to provide stiff competition to anti-establishment forces. Nawaz Sharif who raises voices against army and pervez Musharraf now was made by the establishment to fight against the ever growing popularity of Benazir Bhutto. Similarly Pml-q was established by Pervez Musharraf.
The fact is that no matter form of government exists in Pakistan, army will continue to play its role in the working and functioning of the government. This is quite unfortunate but our political leaders are to be accused for this. Leaders like Nawaz Sharif asked army for help and Pakistan paid for it. This practice has to be stopped and a perfect democratic system has to be established in Pakistan if Pakistan wants to progress and develop.

Analysis of Zia Ul Haq's Islamization





On December 2,1978 General Muhammad Zia ul Haq delivered a nation wide address on the occasion of the first day of Hijra calendar. He did this in order to usher in an Islamic system to Pakistan. According to my opinion this was the first step of Zia to the process of Islamization.
After assuming the power the task that the government set to was its public commitment to enforce Nizam-e-Mustafa(Islamic system) a 180 degree turn from Pakistan’s predominantly Common Law. As a preliminary measure to establish an Islamic society in Pakistan.
Continiouing with the process of Islamization Zia’ government introduced hudood ordinance. This is that under offence against property, the punishment of imprisonment or fine, or both, as provided in the existing Pakistan Penal Code for theft, was substituted by the amputation of the right hand of the offender from the joint of the wrist by a surgeon. For robbery the right hand of the offender from the wrist and his left foot from the ankle should be amputated by surgeon. According to my own judgment these was a very strict rules but yet proved to be very effective at that time.
Zia’s government also introduced prohibition order. Drinking of wine(such as alcoholic drinks) was not a crime at all under the Pakistan Penal Code. In 1977, however the drinking and selling of wine by Muslims was banned in Pakistan and a sentence of imprisonment of six months or a fine of Rs 5000/-;or both was provided in that law. Under the prohibition order ,these provision of law were replaced by the punishment of eighty stripes. However the law was not applicable on the non Muslims who can possess a license to drink and/or manufacture alcoholic beverages from the government.
The next one is the Adultery(Zina) Ordinance which comes in the Zia’s Islamization. Under the Zina ordinance the provisions relating to adultery were replaced as that the women and the man guilty will be flogged, each of them, with hundred stripes, if unmarried. And if they are married they shall be stoned to death.
Then comes the blasphemy law. the Pakistan Penal Code and the criminal procedure were amended, through ordinance in 1980, 1982 and 1986 to declare anything implying disrespect to Muhammad,Ahle Bait(family of the prophet), Sahaba(companions of the prophet) and Sh’ar-i-islam(Islamic symbols) punishable with imprisonment or fine, or with both.
Conclusion
Islamization was sometimes used as a political process. Zia interpretation of islam may have contributed to the rise of fundamentalism. Since the death of zia in 1988 inconsistency and instability has prevailed in Pakistani laws.
Instability means that the law is frequently changing or is under threat of change because of differences in opinions among the ruling factions.

Thursday, December 3, 2009

Gen Zia-ul-Haq era



General Zia ul Haq (12 August 1924-17 August 1988) was the president and military ruler of Pakistan from july 1977 to his death in 1988.Distinguish by his rule in the Black September in Jordan military operation in 1970, he was appointed Chief of Army Staff in 1976.After wide spread civil disorder ,he overthrew ruling Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.He initially ruled Chief Martial Law Administrator ,but later installed himself as a President of Pakistan in September 1978.
Zia’s major domestic initiatives includes the state’s islamization , the consolidation of the fledgling nuclear program, which was started by Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto .His endorsement of rightwing political party Pakistan Muslim League initiated its mainstream revival. However he is most remembered for foreign policy ;the subsidizing of the Mujahedeen movement during the 1979 Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.
If we will talk about the army career of Zia he was commissioned in the British Indian Army in a cavalry regiment on 12 may 1943 and served during world war 2.After Pakistan gained its independence Zia joined newly formed Pakistan Army as a major. Zia was also stationed in Jordan from 1967 to 1970.Later on he was promoted to Lt Gen and was appointed of the II Strike Corps at Multan in 1975.On 1 March 1976 Prime Minister Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto approved Zia ul Haq as Chief of Army Staff.
After assuming power Chief Martial Law Administrator Gen Zia promised to hold National and provincial elections in next 90 days and to hand over power to the representatives of the nation. He also stated the constitution of Pakistan had not been abrogated whatsoever but had been temporarily suspended. However in October 1977 he announced the postponement of the electoral plan and decided to start an accountability process of the politicians. Zia said that he changed his decision due to the strong public demand for the scrutiny of political leaders who had engaged in malpractice in the past. Thus the “retribution first, election later”PNA policy was adopted.
Under the rule of Zia Ul Haq adultery(Zina)Ordinance was also introduced. Under the zina ordinance the provisions relating to adultery were replaced as that the women and the man guilty will be flogged, each of them, with hundred stripes, if unmarried. And if they are married they are stoned to death.
The Pakistan Penal code and the criminal procedure Code were amended, through ordinances in 1980, 1982 and 1986 to declare anything implying disrespect to Muhammad, Sahaba and Sha’ar-i- Islam, a cognizable offence, punishable with imprisonment or fine, or with both.
At the time of Zia’s rule instruction were issued for regular observance of prayers and arrangements were made performing noon prayer in government quasi-government offices and educational institutions


Monday, November 30, 2009

Dictatorship-Unconstitutional but affective form of governance in Pakistan


A dictatorship is defined as an autocratic form of government in which the government is ruled by an individual, the dictator, without hereditary ascension.

Since the partition of India and creation of Pakistan in 1947, the civil government has not been able to function properly. Many reasons caused the failure of the democratic system in Pakistan. Since 1947 till 1958 the democratic prevailed in Pakistan. Progress was limited, country was barely able to survive and no or less development took place. In 1958 the then Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshall General Ayub Khan imposed Marshall Law, abrogated the constitution of 1956 and became the chief executive of the country. His era was characterized by vast development and progress. Some say that Pakistan is still Pakistan because of Ayub Khan who lead Pakistan in a crisis situation in a marvellous manner. From the solution of water problems with India, building of two largest dams in the world, vast industrial progress to leading the country to a victorious war against India in 1965, Ayub Khan's era is characterized by the glorious work he did for Pakistan.

After Ayub Khan came Z.A.Bhutto. Although known as a great leader he virtually did nothing for Pakistan except for making a big blunder by nationalizing everything. His era had everything except for progress and development.

Zia-ul-Haq was the only dictator whose era was a dark period in the history of Pakistan. The foundation of terrorism was laid down during his era. He provoked extremsim and terrorism.

The next ten, eleven years were the darkest ones for me in the entire history of Pakistan. Two major parties i.e. PPP and PML did everything to let down each other, governance was not the name of working for people rather it was about degrading the opposition and letting them down. No progress took place in those eleven years. Immense corruption characterized the era's of Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto. According to the report of Transperancy Internation 1996 Pakistan was the 2nd most corrupt nation in the whole world.

Pervez Musharraf stabilized the Pakistan economy and took Pakistan towards progress and development. As the figures have been mentioned in my previous article, Pakistan developed leaps and bounds during his time.

In my view country is not a part of the constitution rather constitution is the part of a country and the first and foremost clause of the constitution is to preserve the country which the so-called dictators did while the democratic governments who were supposed to work for the people did not. Our politicians have always kept their own interests before the interest of the country and they have always strived to fill their own pockets and eat peoples' money. On the other hand the dictators have always done something meaningful for this country and for the people. Our media is biased, paid by the filthy rich politicians who always focus on the negative side of dictatorship but never mention the good work. Our media coverages the politicians who are always showing with everything they do. I will always favor dictatorship over democracy as this nation is not capable of choosing right leaders and unfortunately no capable leader is coming up in Pakistan.

Saturday, November 28, 2009

Benazir Bhutto-Daughter of the East



INTRODUCTION

Benazir Bhutto was born June 21, 1953, in Karachi, Pakistan. The meaning of her name is "one without equal." • She was eldest child in family of former President of Pakistan Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto .Her nick name was Pinkie. This name was given to her by her family because she was unusually pink baby; she attended catholic schools of Pakistan. She completed her higher studies from Harvard University’s Radcliffe College and Oxford University. She was the first Asian women to be elected president of oxford union. After graduation from oxford, Bhutto returned to Pakistan hoping to enter the Foreign Service in the government headed by her father who was prime minister at that time. Her father Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was deposed in a 1977 due to the charges of corruption and misusing his powers and executed in 1979. After that, Benazir went to Britain. Initially she did not want to come in politics but after her father’s execution in 1979, she inherited the leadership of the PPP under military ruler General Mohammad Zia-ul-Haq. In 1986, Bhutto returned to Pakistan from exile in Britain and welcomed by such large crowds that it took her march 9½ hours to travel the 8 miles from the airport to a rally site in Lahore. In 1988, Bhutto became the first woman president in the history of Pakistan. She elected as a president twice in 1988 and in 1993.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND AWARDS



·In 1988, The People Magazine included her, among the 50 most beautiful people of the world. That time Benazir was 35 years old.
·In 1988, Bhutto became the first woman president in the history of Pakistan. She elected as a president twice in 1988 and in 1993.
·Bhutto returned to Pakistan on 18 December 2007 after eight years of self-imposed exile. • Bhutto once mentioned that former Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, Britain's "Iron Lady," was her role model.
·There are many books written about Benazir such as Benazir Bhutto (1989), Daughter of the East, Daughter of Destiny: Autobiography etc.
·Recently, MSN, a popular website declared Benazir Bhutto the 2nd most powerful woman in the world after Rodham Clinton.
·There is a similarity between Benazir Bhutto’s family, Gandhi Family of India and Canady family of America that most of the member of these families did not die natural but killed or executed.

CONCLUSION


Benazir Bhutto, an educated woman hailing from a Pakistani political family which has fought against despotism and dictatorship throughout its history, realized the dangers she will face upon her return to Pakistan after many years in exile. “In spite of that she was determined to boldly encounter the dangers in her homeland in a bid to rescue her country from the extremism and ignorance which currently threatens various aspects of life in Pakistan. “Such being the case, Benazir Bhutto henceforth should be looked as a noble example to be followed by Muslims who strive to develop their communities and local cultures, simply because she has spared no effort and with determination and bravery tried to develop her country when most others were sitting idle. Anyhow Number 9 proved unlucky for Benazir. She was born on in 1953. She married on 18 December and her marriage was most affected by her political career. She went into self-imposed exile in Dubai in 1998, which adds up to 27 and then the dreaded 9. She returned back on 18 December 2007, the sum of 18 and 2007 is also 9. She assassinated on 27 December. She was 54 years old when killed in Rawalpindi.



Wednesday, November 25, 2009

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto-The Great Leader


START OF POLITICAL CAREER
Bhutto started his political career as a member of Pakistan’s delegation to the United Nations in 1957. In 1958, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto became youngest cabinet member and was given the charge of the energy ministry by President Ayub Khan. He also headed the ministries of commerce, information and industries. Bhutto was very close to the President and advised him on several affairs.

ACHIEVEMENTS
Ad-hoc-ism is when policy has got no forethought. A proper policy is when you make choices and At that time Pakistan had no specific foreign policy. It was rather based on ad-hoc-ism. make decisions accordingly and then you plan tactics and strategies in accordance with those initiatives. When Bhutto became the foreign minister in 1962, initially having joined as commerce minister, he advocated bilateralism. Bilateralism was to maintain friendly relation with other nations in the region while simultaneously being a part of an alliance sponsored by major powers. Therefore Pakistan started looking towards the east and therefore he became the pioneer in relationships with China.



One of the greatest achievements of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was that, on assumption of power he assigned a committee comprising 23 members of assembly to frame constitution. It was the first constitution of Pakistan which had support of all relevant parties. It was accepted on 14th August 1973 and is still in practice though with all its 18 ammendments.


Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto initiated the Pakistan’s nuclear program in reply to nuclear tests by India. This decision paid dividence for Pakistan and helped Pakistan in securing itself. It also helped Pakistan in producing energy as nuclear reactors like that in Karachi which was constructed with the help of USSR produced a great amount of energy.

Bhutto fought for democracy throught his life. He went through thick and thin in fight for the establishment of democracy in Pakistan. Bhutto was peoples’ leader and always spoke their language. He lost his life fighting for democracy as he refused to accept the dictatorship of Zia-ul-Haq.

POLICIES AND CRITICISM


Bhutto’s policies of addressing the issues at grass root level had resulted in a major backlash to such policies of Nationalization and liberalism. His liberalism was countered by Nizam-e-Mustafa movement. This was lead by students from religious seminaries who were indoctrinated in the extremist Deobandi philosophy which lead to violent demonstrations against Bhutto’s liberalism. Simultaneously his external policies were countered by severe criticism particularly from America. On 28th April 1977, while addressing general Assembly of UN, Bhutto accused USA of hatching an international conspiracy against him in an impassioned speech. “the white elephants were after his blood”. He had presented a third block on basis of Islamic Solidarity Movement, Islamic summit Conference in 1974, which provided platform where all the Muslim heads combined against the policies of USA. Its aim was to enhance the spirit of brotherhood among all Muslim countries. As a result, USA saw it as a threat against the hedge nous policies of USA.


USA was annoyed because:
· Bhutto’s policy of Neuclearization.
· Islamic solidarity block(those states that are weaker , should be supported by powerful Muslim states by sharing of resources)
· Bilateral Policy. He stated that Pakistan needs to build ties with other nations especially China to counter the hedgemony and monopoly of USA in making decisions. Along with defense pacts with USA. Ties with one country should not hinder you from creating ties with others.
These three major aspects of Bhutto’s policies brought him extreme criticism from West and particularly America.

During his reign, he frequently changed laws in order to suit his own policies and his harassment was not only directed to members of his party but also the President of PML(Pir Pagara), Asghar Khan(The tehriq chief of Tehriq-e-Istiqlal)and other PPP workers like Muhammad Hanif Ramay(CM of Punjab). He also alienated the Bugti and Marri tribes of Balochistan. He also had his differences with Khan Wali Khan of ANP. The political situation in Pakistan had gone out of his hands. Another damage to his reputation by amnesty reports. Amnesty international had been extremely critical of the political prisioners of Bhutto’s time. In the meanwhile, Bhutto had announced elections on the 7th Jan, 1977. These 2nd General elections lead to violent demonstrations by opposition for Bhutto’s government rigging in the election. General Zia-ul-Haq on 5th July, 1977 dissolved the senate and National Assembly. He imposed martial law and the constitution of 1973 was suspended.








Saturday, November 21, 2009

Sharif brothers-rise, downfall and achievements


HISTORY
Mian Muhammad Nawaz Shareef and Mian Muhammad Shahbaz Shareef are the two pioneers of Pakistan Muslim League (N). Nawaz Shareef became Prime Minister of Pakistan 1st in 1990 and then in 1997. Shahbaz Shareef is the president of PML(N) and Chief Minister of Punjab. The bad relations with military resulted the dissolvement of government of Nawaz Shareef when General Pervaiz Musharraf took over the charge on 12th October 1999. Nawaf Shareef was charged on the cases of corruption and extrajudicial killings.

ACHIEVEMENTS
The best era of PML ( N ) was 1997-1999 (AUGUST). PML(N) did great work for the betterment of Pakistan.
•The peak point of political career of Shareef Brothers was testing of nuclear tests on may 28th 1998.This was done in response to the detonations of five Indian nuclear devices. At that time, Pakistan was at very critical situation and Pak Army was alerted inorder to defend nuclear installations.
• The second best achievement was to solve Kargil Conflict in 1999, Nawaz Shareef gave tacit approval for planned attacks to stop Indian army.
• Nawaz Shareef proposed Islamic law based on Quran and Sunnah in 1998.
• The construction of Motorways in Pakistan was one of the biggest achievements of PML(N). It was the first Motorway in SOUTH ASIA. It was inaugurated in November 1997.



DOWNFALL OF SHARIF BROTHERS(OCTOBER 1999)

Nawaz Shareef was convicted in hijacking and terrorism when he blocked Pervaiz Musharraf from landing at Karachi airport. Later on, Supreme Court approved cases of corruption and Court sentenced Shareef Brothers to 14 years imprisonment and a fine of 20 million rupees.



RETURN OF SHARIF BROTHERS TO FACE MILITARY RULE( SEPTEMBER 2007)


Shareef brothers returned to Pakistan in September 2007 to face the dictatorship of Pervaiz Musharraf. Shareef Brothers worked a lot for the reinstatement of judges. In 2008 Elections, Both Shareef Brothers were called ineligible for elections, but later on the issue was solved and PML(N) won strongly in Punjab and PML(N) formed joint government with leading party Pakistan Peoples Party. On 16th March, 2009 PML(N) lead long march lead to the restoration of judiciary.






Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Pervez Musharraf's Era



On October 12, 1999 Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff displaced Mian Nawaz Sharif from Prime Minsiter's office and became de facto Head of the government. The reason for that was Nawaz Sharif tried to make ISI chief Ziauddin Butt the army while Musharraf was in Sri Lanka and also forcing the PIA flight carrying Musharraf to land in Mumbai instead of Karachi. That day marked the start of a new era for Pakistan, democracy was crippled and marshall-law ruled again.

The dismissal of Nawaz Sharif was welcomed the people of Pakistan. The entire nation celebrated the removal of a corrupt leader who had completely destroyed the Pakistan economy which grew by a very slow rate of 1.2% during his tenure.

General Musharraf changed the foreign policy of Pakistan, his aim was to have to healthy relations with the Indians which was heavily criticized by the religious groups in Pakistan but welcomed by the international community.

Musharraf took the office of the president on 20th June, 2001. Three months late his biggest test came and he decided to support the US in the war against terror because he had no other choice. This decision had its pros and cons for Pakistan.

Huge economic growth took place during Musharraf's time. Nawaz Sharif left Pakistan in a dismal state with only $ 1 billion in the foreign reserves, 65% of our GDP was subjected to loan and our stock market reeling at 1000 points. By 2008 Pakistan's foreign reserves had risen to $16.5 billion. GDP grew at a staggering rate of 7% per annum, KSE broke the world record by moving to 13000 points and only 28% of the GDP was subjected to loan. Pakistan economy rose to $ 160 million from 70 million in 1999. Investment rose to $ 6 billion per annum. Public sector development grew to rs 520 billion in 2007 from 80 billion in 1999. The Infrastructure Industries Index measures the growth at 26.8%. Poverty was at 34.7% in 2001 but it feel to 23.1% in 2005 according to a economic survey in 2005. Pakistan ranked 3rd in banking profitability according to IMF during Musharraf's era. 35% of the GDP was saved for developmental works during Musharraf's era as compared to 4% during Sharif's era. IT industry which was non-existent 10 years back, grew to the worth of $ 2 billion in which $ 1 billion was export related. Due to this very economic growth Pakistan was able to resist a huge shock that came in the shape of 2005 Earthquake.

Massive development took place during the space of 10 years. Huge projects like Makran coastal highway, M3, Gawadar port, Sundar industrial state, Qasim port, Chashma Nuclear power plant, renovation of mangla and tarbela dam.
Similar was the case in the education sector where the number of private sector institutions grew by 100% as compared to 1999. The total number of educational institutes rose to 245,682. Literacy rate increased to 53% in 2007 as compared to 45% in 2002. Nine engineering and technology universities were set up during his time

Musharraf introduced the local government system which allowed people to easily access the government and this system really flourished. The biggest example is Karachi whose mayor was voted the 2nd best mayor of the world

Media was given full liberty by President Musharraf. News channel were free to criticize or praise anyone they wanted to. They emphasised on the problems that the people faced and helped the government in solving issued. Free media played a very important role in exposing different politicians and other elements which had done nothing for Pakistan. But too much liberation resulted in too much negativity.