To date, Pakistan has had three constitutions and several amendments in its 70 year history. While the previous two constitutions only lasted two and four years respectively, the 1973 constitution has remained intact for almost 40 years. Even the mighty dictators Zia and Musharraf did not dare abrogate the sacred document. The most they could do was to place the constitution in abeyance. What is so special about the 1973 constitution that it is still standing today?
For many Pakistanis the 1973 constitution, despite its many quirks and flaws, is a sacred document. All the officers of the state take an oath to defend the Pakistani state and its constitution before assuming office. The state and the constitution are one and the same and thus by extension any attempt to dismantle the constitution is treasonous and punishable by death. Also, the 1973 constitution was the only constitution that was able to reconcile the question of minorities (Ahmadiyya community being an exception) on paper at least.
Thus, the 1973 constitution inspires to be a beacon of order and stability in times of chaos and confusion.
For many Pakistanis the 1973 constitution, despite its many quirks and flaws, is a sacred document. All the officers of the state take an oath to defend the Pakistani state and its constitution before assuming office. The state and the constitution are one and the same and thus by extension any attempt to dismantle the constitution is treasonous and punishable by death. Also, the 1973 constitution was the only constitution that was able to reconcile the question of minorities (Ahmadiyya community being an exception) on paper at least.
Thus, the 1973 constitution inspires to be a beacon of order and stability in times of chaos and confusion.
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