ANALYZING Pakistan’s current situation in the context of its 77-year history reveals that its devastation, ruin and ongoing crises stem from numerous complex factors. These include political instability, economic crises, institutional weaknesses, corruption and both internal and external challenges. Furthermore, decisions and policies made in the past are largely responsible for the present circumstances. These issues do not reflect the failure of a single institution, government or class but represent a collective failure that has worsened over time. The political history of Pakistan is marked by crises, power struggles, military interventions, judicial disputes and social and political instability. Shortly after its creation, the death of Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah and the assassination of Liaquat Ali Khan created a leadership vacuum. Delays in constitution-making, power imbalances between East and West Pakistan and other political conflicts further exacerbated political instability. In 1958, General Ayub Khan exploited this instability to impose martial law. His era witnessed growing discontent in East Pakistan which pushed the country to the brink of division. The creation of Bangladesh in 1971 profoundly impacted Pakistan’s geographical and political history.
In 1971, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto assumed power and oversaw the adoption of the consensus-based Constitution of 1973. Following the Indo-Pak war and the secession of East Pakistan, Bhutto initiated significant reconstruction measures, earning praise domestically and internationally. He is also credited with advancing Pakistan’s nuclear program. However, under the pretext of rigging in the 1977 elections, intense protests erupted, enabling General Zia-ul-Haq to impose a martial law with the full support of the USA and other international players amidst the Cold War scenario and the anticipated Soviet intervention in Afghanistan. After Zia’s death, democratic processes resumed, but the 1990s were rife with political instability, corruption allegations and economic decline. The intense rivalry between Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif destabilized governments and diverted attention from solving public issues. Frequent changes in government, parliamentary suspensions and interference by undemocratic forces weakened democratic institutions, leaving the economy in disarray and depriving the populace of basic amenities. This era was defined more by political polarization and uncertainty than by democratic progress.
In 1999, General Pervez Musharraf ousted Nawaz Sharif’s government and assumed power. After 9/11, Pakistan joined the US-led War on Terror, which brought numerous internal and external challenges. Musharraf’s tenure was marked by repeated constitutional violations and the weakening of state institutions. Pakistan became deeply entangled in terrorism under the guise of combating it, with lingering effects felt to this day. In 2018, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) came to power, facilitated by the military establishment and judiciary. Under Imran Khan’s leadership, the government emphasized accountability and reforms. However, flawed policies and political polarization deepened societal divisions and pushed the country to the brink of economic collapse. A culture of intolerance, abuse and trolling of opponents was developed and encouraged, while political differences were turned into personal enmities during Imran Khan’s regime.
In 2022, Imran Khan was removed from office via a no-confidence motion, further intensifying political tensions. Pakistan is now governed by a coalition, but while there are signs of economic stability, the political crisis persists. Confrontation is at its peak, with Imran Khan insisting on agitation over dialogue. Political instability has severely impacted the economy, while corruption and incompetence in state institutions continue to hinder basic public services. Blame-shifting and irresponsibility remain major obstacles to resolving these issues. Throughout its history, Pakistan has struggled with the tug-of-war between weak democratic practices and martial law regimes. Whenever democracy is restored, political parties, the judiciary and the media often unite against the government, leaving little opportunity for democracy to strengthen. Political parties and their affiliated journalists, analysts and activists emphasize the importance of the Constitution and freedom of expression when in opposition but defend harsh measures against rivals when in power.
Blaming external factors is easy, but Pakistan’s real crisis stems from internal discord, a blame culture and lack of accountability. All stakeholders—political leadership, judiciary, military, media and the public—must prioritize national interest over personal agendas. This critical moment demands ending confrontational politics and engaging in sincere dialogue. A unified strategy for development and stability is essential. Only through consensus and collective effort can Pakistan overcome its challenges and secure a prosperous future. Pakistan was a grand dream built on sacrifices and hopes. Now, it is up to us to turn this dream into reality or let it become another tragic chapter in history. Let us advance with collective consciousness toward the country’s progress and stability and prove that we are a nation of action, not complaints. This is a decisive moment. If we do not stand united for the survival and prosperity of this nation today, history will never forgive us. Let us awaken to our responsibilities and transform Pakistan into a sovereign, strong and prosperous nation—not with words but with practical actions. As one united nation, free from prejudice and division, we must play our part in leading Pakistan to its rightful destination.
—The writer is Barrister, Solicitor & Notary Public.
(usmanlawoffice@gmail.com)
