Ijaz Khan: Democracy in Pakistan

Monday, May 27, 2013

A Step Forward on The Democratic Road?

My questions that begs answer, to be able to say yes Pakistan has moved forward on the Democratic Road as a result of May 11 2013 elections. Answers will become clear within few months. We must watch carefully

A Step Forward on the Democratic Road?

Daily Times May 27 2013

May 11 elections are generally hailed as a major step forward in the direction of Democracy in Pakistan. Arguments can be forwarded both in favor and against this position. Democratization means transfer of real powers to people. It is a process of including the secluded. People exercise their control through elected representatives. Elections are the key to Democracy. It can be claimed without fear of reasonable rebuttal that these elections have generated the most controversies; keeping aside the 1977 elections, which will need a different debate. Having said that, one must also understand that democracy never comes neatly and disciplined. It is noisy and the road to it is bumpy. Democracy also does not come at once; it comes gradually through a continuous process. So, despite many controversies and legitimate questions about its fairness, elections have taken place after five years of an elected government, which is positive occurrence in its own right. A new government is ready to replace the outgoing one at center. In two provinces government will change hands while in two those in power earlier have returned. Despite the controversies this can become a step in the right direction. However, challenges and dangers to the process have not finished. The new elected governments, especially at the center have the task of consolidating and furthering the democratic gains. This write up focuses on the federal government