The emergence of a nation1 after the decline of British Colonial Imperialism in the sub-continent presents a compelling case study in the annals of modern political economy, rich with historical facts and nuanced dialectics. Unlike the preceding kingships that primarily focused on territorial conquest, British Imperialism left a distinctive imprint on the lands it governed, ushering in a transformative era of socio-political and economic development. This unique influence gave rise to a flourishing tree of nationalism, socialism, politics, and economics, rooted in the newly cultivated principles of capitalism2. The far-reaching consequences of this historical trajectory serve as a thought-provoking exploration of the interplay between colonial legacies and the complexities of nation-building, underscoring the dynamic forces at play in shaping societies and their political economies.
In a remarkably brief period, the influence of Colonial Imperialism burgeoned into a linguistic norm that gradually permeated the consciousness of a significant majority, despite the potential reservations harbored by some discerning readers. Nonetheless, from an objective standpoint, this phenomenon did, in fact, materialize. Alas, it brought forth a novel manifestation of subjugation, akin to a modern variant of servitude. Emerging from this transformative reality were not the conventional agents of power, but rather a distinctive array of classes, exuding an air of exoticism.
Among this eclectic spectrum, one discerned the ascendancy of business magnates, industrial tycoons, agrarian leaders, trading moguls, bureaucratic stalwarts, military figures, and statesmen. It is noteworthy that politicians, as a collective, emerged as the cohort most reliant upon the currents of Imperial authority. Operating in the capacity of dutiful aides, they adroitly politicized their actions, governed with deference, and obediently carried out the Imperial mandate.
In the historical context of the post-colonial period in the Indian subcontinent, certain dynamics emerged that influenced the societal mindset and the functioning of various institutions. It is important to acknowledge that the colonial legacy profoundly impacted the region, including the development of a class that seemed to exhibit subservient tendencies and a fascination with the attractive aspects of capitalism showcased by the British colonial powers. This mindset, in turn, contributed to the emergence of a class that could be seen as a product of colonial manipulation.
The imprint of colonialism on subsequent political movements and institutions is discernible. The influence of colonial practices is evident in the structure and functioning of key elements such as the constitution, public organizations, the military, police, bureaucracy, and even the electoral system. Remarkably, the remnants of the Indian Act of 1935, and even earlier colonial legislation, continue to persist in the present-day Pakistani constitution, serving as a testament to this enduring influence.
These institutions, initially shaped under colonial rule, were not easily disentangled from their colonial roots. The bureaucratic structures, for instance, bore a resemblance to the British administrative model, maintaining a hierarchical and centralized approach. The armed forces, which played a significant role during the colonial period, continued to retain certain vestiges of the colonial military system, further perpetuating the influence of the past.
Here are a few razor-sharp facts:
Foremost among the discernible realities is the notable occurrence that a significant number of eminent leaders involved in the subcontinent's struggle for independence were nurtured and educated in Western institutions, a pattern that was mirrored in other regions under the sway of colonial dominance.
Particularly in the sub-continent, the pursuit of self-governing entities was predominantly executed through constitutional means, diverging from the methods employed by liberation movements in Korea or Vietnam.
Even the resistance movements against Imperialism witnessed in Africa exhibited a proclivity for employing the linguistic and intellectual framework of the ruling elite.
The establishment of Pakistan within the sub-continent itself faced considerable opposition, with both major sects of the indigenous Muslim community, namely Deoband and Barelvi, expressing dissent towards the independence movement.
In the waning years leading up to the passing of the Independence Act of 1947 by the British colonial administration, internal schisms emerged within the ranks of the Muslim League. Furthermore, the political party instrumental in the creation of the nation no longer maintains a presence in contemporary politics.
Regrettably, the historiography of Pakistan has been marred by biased, manipulated, and corrupted narratives, as astutely expounded upon in K.K Aziz's seminal work, "The Murder of History."
1947-1956
Following the enactment of the Independence Act in 1947, the Indian subcontinent witnessed the emergence of two new nations on the world stage: India and Pakistan. India, guided by the experienced leadership of the Indian National Congress, demonstrated a strong historical foundation, disciplined approach, and political maturity that enabled it to secure a notable position in the global arena. In contrast, Pakistan encountered significant challenges stemming from a weakened political system, fledgling leadership, and a prevailing feudal mindset, which hindered its participation in international politics.
Under the leadership of Jawaharlal Nehru, India embarked on a path of establishing a secular and inclusive democracy. The Indian National Congress, as the dominant political party, aimed to unite the diverse religious and linguistic communities into a cohesive nation. Nehru's government implemented agrarian reforms, industrialization policies, and social welfare initiatives, prioritizing the upliftment of the masses and addressing socio-economic disparities.
Meanwhile, Pakistan faced distinctive obstacles due to its divided geographical structure, with East Pakistan (present-day Bangladesh) and West Pakistan (present-day Pakistan) located in separate regions. The political and cultural disparities between these wings strained national unity. Mohammad Ali Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan, envisioned a state where Muslims could freely practice their religion. However, the complex mosaic of ethnic and linguistic identities within Pakistan added layers of complexity to the nation-building process.
Pakistan encountered delays in developing its first constitution, which drew heavily from Imperial Law Books. The political divide, an immature political mindset, personal agendas, and the flawed, dualist nature of central leadership contributed to this prolonged process. Moreover, the foreign policy drafted by Prime Minister Liaquat Ali Khan failed to attain the desired success, further impacting Pakistan's political standing.
During this period, the military began to exert its influence beyond matters of security. The political landscape in the early years of Pakistan was characterized by volatility, frequent changes in government, and power struggles among various political parties including the Army. Whose Chief also became a defense cabinet minister directly handling the daily businesses of the state.
1956-1971
By the year 1958, General Ayub Khan, a military leader who had received his training under British tutelage, assumed direct control of the government, assuming the mantle of the first native Commander-in-Chief. During his tenure, (The Second Marshal Law) he implemented a constitution of his own design, a period during which the emergence of substantial scholarly contributions in the country remained conspicuously scarce.
While the nation progressed steadily across various developmental domains during this era, it did so primarily reliant on loans, grants, and aid extended to the military regime as a result of their unquestioned allegiance to Western powers, a relationship that endures to this day in certain forms.
Pakistan deftly navigated the labyrinthine realm of global politics, leveraging its strategic significance, particularly in the context of U.S.-China and Soviet-Russian relations. This diplomatic landscape laid the foundation for a burgeoning strategic partnership between Pakistan and China, even as the Pakistani establishment continued to maintain a predisposition towards the United States and the Western powers, rather than focusing on fostering robust regional relationships.
The ambiguous foreign policy stance ultimately precipitated the 1965 War with India, a neighboring rival that seized the opportunity to inflict further harm upon the nascent and fragile nation. As a consequence, an already sluggish economy bore the brunt of the conflict, exacerbating its woes. Pakistan's defense expenditure escalated from 4% to nearly 10% of the national GDP, placing additional strains on its resources. The aftermath of the war saw Pakistan depleted by 17% of its front-line strength, while India's losses amounted to less than 10%. A similar trend was observed in the national GDP graphs during that era. But a narrative of victory is largely being propagated and observed among masses to even this day. 3
1971-2008
Following the 1965 conflict, Pakistan's already struggling economy encountered numerous challenges. The United States, imposing sanctions and halting military aid, compelled Pakistan to seek alternative sources for its defense requirements, leading to a significant reliance on China for military supplies. Which shaped the foreign policy for the years to come. While instead of returning power to civilian rule, General Ayub Khan, grappling with health issues, transferred authority to General Yahya Khan, who would later mismanage yet another tragic chapter in Pakistan's tumultuous history.
The insecurities prevailing in West Pakistan prompted the deployment of Punjabi battalions in Bengal, exacerbating an already delicate situation. The presence of a predominantly West Pakistani bureaucracy, which held minimal relevance to the concerns of Bengal, compounded the problem. A similar dynamic was evident in the education sector, further deepening the divide between native Bengalis and the central government. The imposition of Urdu in Bengal, coupled with administrative mismanagement and mistreatment, created a sense of isolation and ignited civil unrest.
The general elections held under the third martial law yielded unprecedented outcomes. The party led by Mujibur Rahman emerged victorious in the East, while the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) secured a majority in the West. Despite Mujibur Rahman's majority, a combination of personal ego, the self-interest of political stakeholders in West Pakistan, and state machinery restrictions prevented his ascension to a central position. These factors ultimately culminated in the separation of East Pakistan, which later became Bangladesh. In the aftermath, Bangladesh followed a similar trajectory, influenced by its geographical proximity to India, and launched operations against Urdu-speaking communities and officials with any affinity towards Pakistan.
On both sides of the divide, a wave of superstition, mass propaganda, manipulative narratives, and ego-driven governance contributed to a widespread lack of awareness regarding the true factors behind the creation of Bangladesh. Various stakeholders in West Pakistan propagated a separatist narrative, further destabilizing Pakistan, while India capitalized on the situation to weaken Pakistan's stability. However, the reality differs significantly from the narratives perpetuated on both sides. Regardless of personal biases or attempts to justify historical flaws, it is evident that the nation collectively suffered a profound loss, and the ramifications persist to this day.
Subsequent to these tragic events, Pakistan finally obtained a constitution that, fortunately, remains largely intact to this day, except for a subsequent period of martial law imposed by General Musharraf. The General ruled the country for a decade, shaping its trajectory and leaving a lasting impact that reverberates in the present. (It is crucial to acknowledge that this brief overview cannot encompass the full extent of the dark tale surrounding Pakistan's birth under controversial circumstances, subsequently shaped by the influence of power elites. Nonetheless, it endeavors to provide readers with a broader perspective from which to formulate a reasoned foreign policy.)
Road to Democracy and Indirect Military Rule: The Hybrid Age
Subsequent to the conclusion of the general elections in 2008, an occasion marked by the remarkable feat of a seamless transfer of power from one civilian government to another, a prevailing aura of optimism pervaded the collective consciousness, nurturing hopes that the shadow of military intervention had been definitively cast aside in the realm of Pakistani politics. However, this perception, albeit skillfully entertained by an analyst (such as myself), was abruptly interrupted as the military establishment adroitly embarked upon a hybrid path, exerting influence over various facets of governance. This marked the advent of a new era characterized by the prioritization of specific interests within Pakistan.
In the aftermath of General Musharraf's relinquishment of power to civilian leadership, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) regained control following their electoral victory, followed by the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N). However, throughout this period, the military retained significant control over and influence upon the country's political landscape.
During the tenure of these two civilian-led governments, Pakistan struggled to establish a clear and transformative trajectory. Both administrations relied heavily on loans, grants, and aid from major international lending institutions. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government, in particular, implemented various public initiatives primarily funded through borrowed funds.
However, despite the influx of financial resources, the impact of these initiatives on the country's overall direction was not notably impressive. The implementation of projects and policies was often marred by inefficiencies, lack of transparency, and inadequate governance, resulting in suboptimal outcomes. Furthermore, the burden of accumulating debt increased, raising concerns about the long-term sustainability of the country's fiscal position.
While the governments may have initiated public projects and pursued certain developmental goals, the reliance on borrowed funds to finance these endeavors raises questions about the ability to achieve sustainable progress and address the underlying structural challenges facing Pakistan's economy and governance system.
Present
In 2018, Pakistan witnessed its third consecutive general elections, culminating in the ascension of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, led by the charismatic populist figure Imran Khan, to a narrow majority, enabling their formation of a government at the federal level, as well as in the provinces of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K.P) and Punjab.
Meanwhile, notable political forces such as the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) and the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N)4 assumed the mantle of a robust opposition. This political landscape, characterized by a diverse array of parties and their respective roles, encapsulates the intricate dynamics of Pakistan's contemporary political sphere.
Under the leadership of Prime Minister Imran Khan, Pakistan embarked on an unprecedented trajectory, driven by the ambitious agenda of change, progress, and development. However, as has been a recurring pattern since independence, the intricate interplay between civilian and military stakeholders with their respective agendas once again exerted its influence.
During his tenure, the new government, representing a significant milestone as the first time the party held power at the center, grappled with a sense of confusion and an inability to translate its vision into tangible achievements. Regrettably, the nation witnessed a stagnation of progress and an inability to effectively fulfill the set goals. In fact, the economic outlook of the country deteriorated as borrowing escalated, imports surged, and the current deficit widened.
Additionally, the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), a flagship infrastructural project generously sponsored by China, encountered impediments, leaving it in a state of limbo, yearning for a substantial impetus to materialize its potential benefits.
This scenario underscores the complexities inherent in the political landscape of Pakistan, where the convergence of multiple agendas and factors can impede the realization of transformative objectives, adversely impacting the nation's economic prospects and critical development initiatives.
Amidst a backdrop of polarized political dynamics, the charismatic and populist leader Imran Khan, despite his initial promise, found himself traversing an unforeseen path. His objection to military intervention on multiple fronts, including Arshad Sharif's assassination and the Cablegate scandal5, combined with a dampened economic outlook, ultimately resulted in his inability to thwart a no-confidence motion presented by the opposition. Remarkably, the opposition, comprising a coalition of thirteen parties, seized the reins of power at the federal level, forming a new government with the unwavering support of the military establishment.
Meanwhile, Imran Khan, now out of office, embarked on an unprecedented course of action, challenging the prevailing status quo and power dynamics. His call for early general elections, amidst polarized political forces, led to the dissolution of provincial governments in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (K.P) and Punjab. Although this move may be perceived as ill-advised, considering the historical political landscape of the country, it signaled Khan's determination to confront the entrenched power structures and the military establishment through his populist maneuvers. Consequently, widespread turbulence ensued, as Khan accused serving generals of involvement in Arshad Sharif's assassination, the Cablegate scandal, and even attempts on his own life, leading to his eventual removal from power and further muddling the political landscape.
Amidst such political uncertainty, Pakistan's economic outlook took a further downturn. Recent mass flooding resulted in significant financial losses, compounding the existing challenges posed by the prolonged COVID-19 crisis since 2019. Delays in receiving installments from the International Monetary Fund's active program, export shortages, a decade-long deindustrialization trend, market inefficiencies, an undertrained workforce, the brain drain of skilled individuals, and the emergence of a hybrid authoritative praetorian regime all contributed to a deepening crisis at the core of the country's economic prospects.
This confluence of factors, characterized by political upheaval, economic challenges, and natural disasters, has added significant strain to Pakistan's overall outlook, necessitating comprehensive and expert-driven approaches to address these multifaceted issues and pave the way toward a more stable and prosperous future.
Imran Khan's party finds itself grappling with terrorism charges following the violent events of May 9th, 2023. The direct attacks on state buildings have cast a shadow of uncertainty, leading to potential disqualifications and placing the party in a state of turmoil. Concurrently, power elites are orchestrating a controlled narrative, carefully shaping public perception to serve their own interests.
Within this complex context, military courts have emerged, hinting at a new manifestation of authoritarianism that bears semblances of a different form of martial law. However, in this instance, the military operates primarily behind the scenes, exerting influence and shaping the course of events from the shadows. This shift in power dynamics introduces a unique and nuanced dimension to the political landscape, characterized by a delicate balance between overt and covert forces.
The unfolding scenario calls for a comprehensive understanding of the underlying dynamics at play, as well as a diligent and critical examination of the evolving narrative propagated by the power elites. It underscores the importance of upholding democratic principles, safeguarding the rule of law, and ensuring transparency and accountability in order to navigate these challenging times and maintain the integrity of the political system.
The way forward
In order to chart a sustainable path forward, it is imperative to undertake a comprehensive reset of the system through the holding of general elections. By entrusting the incoming government with the authority to determine the course of action, there is an opportunity to reaffirm the principles of democracy and eliminate any potential avenues for military intervention. This decisive step, combined with a firm commitment to democratic processes and institutions, is crucial for averting an impending demise. It underscores the urgency of embracing a democratic trajectory that upholds the will of the people, ensures civilian control over governance, and fosters a climate of stability and progress. Otherwise, demise is imminent.
The nation as per definition is a large group of people who share common bonds such as language, culture, history, or ethnicity and who inhabit a specific geographic territory. It is a social and political entity characterized by a sense of collective identity and a desire for self-governance. The concept of a nation often includes the idea of a sovereign state, which is a political entity with recognized borders and the authority to govern itself. It's important to note that the definition of a nation can vary depending on context and perspective. Some definitions may emphasize political factors, while others may focus on cultural or historical elements. But in this case, (countries formed as a result of colonial broke down) it was clearly defined on religious grounds rather than socio-political or cultural. All provinces of Pakistan and the states of India constitute different nations having their own distinct language, culture, history, and ethnicity.
The term "capitalism" in this context refers to the post-World War II paradigm that laid the groundwork for a new world order. This transformative period witnessed the establishment of key institutions such as the World Bank, IMF, and the United Nations, which aimed to promote the ideals of liberal nationalism within the framework of Corporatism. This integration of economic and political systems under the auspices of capitalism facilitated global cooperation and economic development, while also giving rise to new challenges and debates surrounding issues of inequality, governance, and the balance of power in an increasingly interconnected world.
Sources: The Library of Congress Country Studies; CIA World Factbook
Despite being in the opposition at the federal level, the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) managed to maintain its electoral stronghold in the province of Sindh, securing a majority and forming the government for the third consecutive term. Conversely, the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), which had previously held power both at the federal level and in Punjab, encountered a setback in the 2018 elections, failing to secure victories in both arenas. This electoral outcome illustrates the dynamic nature of Pakistani politics, where political fortunes can fluctuate across different regions and levels of government, leading to a diverse distribution of power among various political entities.
Cablegate refers to a significant event in the field of international diplomacy and information leaks. These cables contained classified communications exchanged between various United States embassies and diplomatic missions, as well as sensitive information shared by foreign governments with the U.S. government. The release of the diplomatic cables caused a global uproar, as the leaked information shed light on a wide range of topics, including diplomatic relations, geopolitical strategies, intelligence gathering, human rights issues, and more.