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Unveiling Pakistan’s political paradox: Democracy in name, elite rule in reality

4 minutes read

Unveiling Pakistan’s political paradox: Democracy in name, elite rule in reality

4 minutes read

Key Points

  • The legislative process in Pakistan often bypasses essential public consultation, a departure from established democracies.
  • The rise to power of the current government has faced questions about its legitimacy due to circumstances surrounding its election.
  • Certain bills in Pakistan have raised concerns by violating constitutional norms and eroding citizens’ fundamental rights.
  • Pakistan’s economic challenges have led to the consistent downgrading of its financial rating, limiting access to global loans.
  • The concentration of power within a small ruling elite contrasts with the majority of the population grappling with issues such as inflation, poverty, and unemployment.

Qamar Cheema held an interview with Barrister Hamid Bashani, during which they discussed the imminent conclusion of the current government’s tenure in Pakistan and the series of agreements being signed in its final days. A prevalent speculation also emerged, characterizing Pakistan as a faltering oligarch state where both civil and military elites dominate the political landscape.

Bashani began by highlighting that the average Pakistani citizen has historically been excluded from the decision-making process, underscoring that the presence of democracy in the country does not necessarily translate into its proper implementation, especially considering Pakistan’s unique circumstances. He emphasized the prevalence of specific ruling elite that manages the country’s affairs. In contrast to well-established democracies, where bills undergo thorough discussion in parliament and public fora, Pakistan’s legislative process often bypasses essential public consultation.

In true democracies, bills related to crucial matters such as human rights, public privacy, and constitutional rights undergo extensive public debate and scrutiny before they even reach the parliament. Bashani outlined that this process involves public discussions, engagement with the media, and careful consideration of pros and cons, with public opinion playing a pivotal role in shaping the legislation.

Bashani criticized recent events in Pakistan, contending that the passage of around 35 to 40 bills lacked the hallmark of democratic law-making. He questioned the legitimacy of the current government’s rise to power, highlighting the questionable circumstances surrounding its election.

One of the major concerns Bashani raised was the illegality of certain bills, which violate constitutional norms by disregarding the requirement for search and arrest warrants. He noted that these bills undermine the fundamental constitutional rights of citizens. He underscored the need for robust parliamentary debate and discussion, highlighting that the erosion of democratic processes leads to the curtailment of individual freedoms and consolidation of power among a select few.

Bashani also drew attention to the impact of such bills on Pakistan’s law enforcement agencies, particularly those associated with the deep state. He warned that the lack of accountability and transparency around these agencies, coupled with the amnesty provided by certain bills, could lead to a future marked by an unchecked exercise of power.

Addressing Pakistan’s economic challenges, Bashani labeled Pakistan not as a failing, but as a failed state. He referred to international rating agencies’ consistent downgrading of Pakistan’s financial rating, leading to limited access to loans from global financial institutions. He criticized the government’s approach to securing an IMF deal, characterizing it as reliant on forces and tactics that amount to begging.

Bashani emphasized the concentration of power within the small ruling elite, while the majority of the population grapples with issues such as inflation, poverty, and unemployment. He pointed out the fragmented nature of the opposition, with various parties vying for power without a coherent plan for the country’s progress.

Commenting on economic initiatives such as corporate farming and foreign investments, Bashani warned against the potential consequences for local farmers and laborers. He raised concerns about land sales to international investors, which could negatively impact the livelihoods of local communities.

 Bashani highlighted the contradiction between Pakistan’s claims of democracy and the concentration of power within a select few. He criticized the lack of public representation in crucial decision-making processes, emphasizing the urgent need for transparent and inclusive governance to address Pakistan’s challenges and to secure a prosperous future.

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