Over the past ten years, Pakistan has seen a series of violent demonstrations organized by different political groups. This trend sends a deeply concerning signal to the young generation of the country. However, this violence does not reflect the authentic political journey of Pakistan. The real credit goes to the pioneers of democracy who charted a peaceful path in the fight to restore democratic norms and constitutional rule.
The Foundation of a Peaceful Democratic Struggle
In the early years after independence, democratic institutions were weak, leading to a limited understanding of democracy and human rights among the populace. For nearly two decades, people waited for a beacon of hope, which emerged in the form of Shaheed Zulfikar Ali Bhutto (SZAB). It was the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), founded by SZAB in 1967, that mobilized the nation's silent majority to seize control of their own destiny.
This movement marked the start of a sustained and peaceful campaign for democratic rights that continues to influence the country. The PPP established the principle of public participation in governance, embodying the ideal of a government created by the people, run by the people, and serving the people. Through the power of the vote, SZAB became Pakistan's first democratically elected prime minister, effectively laying the cornerstone of the country's democratic system.
His policies, including the nationalization of major industries, created powerful enemies. These forces, as he was aware, sought to eliminate him. Ultimately, they succeeded in overthrowing democracy, removing the elected government, imprisoning the prime minister, and carrying out his execution.
A Legacy Carried Forward: Benazir Bhutto and Asif Zardari
In 1977, Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto initiated a historic and non-violent movement to bring democracy back to Pakistan. Leading the PPP, she refused to compromise on core democratic values and fundamental rights, with a special focus on empowering women. She faced relentless attacks from violent extremists and terrorists with legendary bravery until her martyrdom. She never yielded to Pakistan's enemies, persistently championing the causes of democracy, human rights, women's participation, and peaceful protest.
The democratic ethos was further strengthened when Asif Ali Zardari was elected as President in 2008. His administration moved away from political vengeance and focused on empowering civilian institutions like parliament, the judiciary, and a free media. A landmark achievement was the signing of the 18th Constitutional Amendment, which transferred significant powers to the provinces. His government also worked to improve ties with neighboring countries, including India, through enhanced trade and cultural exchanges.
On the social welfare front, initiatives like the Benazir Income Support Programme (BISP) were launched to provide direct financial aid to the poorest families. Furthermore, successive governments of the party were responsible for delivering major national projects, most notably the cornerstone nuclear program, and securing a national consensus that gave Pakistan its unanimous Constitution.
The Path Ahead for Pakistan's Youth
This pioneering history of non-violent political struggle offers a crucial blueprint for Pakistan's youth. To build a prosperous and inclusive nation, it is imperative for the younger generation to follow this peaceful legacy. The current era demands a complete rejection of politics based on hatred, violence, and personal vendetta. The future of Pakistan depends on embracing the democratic principles fought for by its founders through peaceful means.
DR SAIF UR REHMAN, Islamabad.
