EVER since their inception on land, humans have tried their level best to manage their shared resources and day-to-day affairs in the best possible manner. To this end, they evolved and practised different models of management and governance with varying success at different times. However, most of the governance models practised till today contain the elements of exclusion, coercion, force and extraction and lacked popular assent. Because of their shortcomings, the models failed to withstand the test of time and public enlightenment, particularly in modern times. Today, the governance system that attended to the people the most is democracy. Since it reflects the wishes and desires of people in the decision-making process, democracy emerged as the most refined form of governance. Though it’s rooted in ancient Greek, the modern days and public enlightenment made it more relevant than any period in history.
What distinguishes democracy from other tried and tested forms of government and makes it better than the others? It is a political system that is based on the principles of freedom, equality and justice. It is a system where power is vested in the people and the government is accountable to them. Though there are many distinctive features, the extent of public participation and say in statesmanship and social affairs is something that other systems almost lack. Civil liberties, active public participation, equality, justice, freedom and accountability are some of the distinguished attributes of genuine democracy.
Democracy in Pakistan has a turbulent history. The country has faced around three decades of direct military rule and the rest of the period as hybrid national regimes with the Establishment as the chief powerbroker. Moreover, colonial legacy, incompetent leadership, institutional inefficiency and clashes, rampant corruption, illiteracy, terrorism and the country’s involvement in the affairs of the competing regional and global power failed to provide a democratic culture and a conducive milieu to thrive on. Therefore, it couldn’t deepen its roots in the real sense of the term.
Democracy in the country would remain a mirage unless the essential prerequisites are worked on and implemented in the truest spirit. A democratic system requires an inclusive political process where all citizens have equal opportunities to take part and have their voices heard. However, in Pakistan, the political process has been marred by violence, deception and intimidation. Therefore, a level playing field must be created for all political parties and the electoral process must be transparent and fair.
A vibrant judiciary mechanism is another essential feature of real democracy. The judiciary must be strong and independent, free from political influence and have the power to interpret the Constitution and protect citizens’ rights. Unfortunately, the judiciary in Pakistan has been subject to political pressure, interference and activism, which makes it essential to strengthen its independence and provide the resources to fulfil its duties.
Moreover, free and fair elections, as envisioned in the constitutions, are central to true democratization in the country. As the soul of a genuine democratic culture, elections are real windows through which the public voice their choice through the representatives they think would best serve their interests. However, apart from being rare practice, elections in the country remained marred by controversy.
Besides, vibrant, responsive and free media is critical for educating the public and assisting them in holding the government accountable for their misdeeds. Media in the country has faced authoritarian curbs, intimidation, harassment and violence for most of the country’s history. Most of the media in the country are controlled or serve as courtiers to the powerful. It is crucial to create an environment where the media can operate independently and without fear of state retribution.
Furthermore, the rule of law is essential and the government must respect citizens’ rights and be bound by the law. In Pakistan, corruption, political interference and impunity have undermined the rule of law. Therefore, strengthening the institutions responsible for enforcing the law and holding violators accountable is crucial. Last but not the least; a strong civil society plays a crucial role in promoting democracy, human rights and social justice. Unfortunately, in Pakistan, civil society has been restricted, harassed and intimidated. It is essential to create an enabling environment for civil society to operate freely and fulfil its duties.
To conclude, democratization in Pakistan depends on implementing its prerequisites in the truest sense. This includes, but is not limited to, a strong and independent judiciary, free, fair and frequent elections, an independent, responsible and vibrant media, the rule of law, an inclusive political process and a robust civil society. Addressing these requirements is vital to ensure that Pakistan progresses towards a brighter future with a flourishing democracy.
—The writer is an anchorperson and columnist.
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