Session 6: Pakistan and its system of Governance

Pakistan got independence in 1947, but since then it is toddling to flourish itself as a well-established state. In a short history of around 65 years many governments have tried their luck, but have remained unsuccessful in publishing and implementing a proper governance system that can be sustained in the long run. Although on papers like other developed nations, Pakistan also follows a proper hierarchical system, with the national assembly elected by the people, a prime minister elected by the national assembly, a senate and provincial assemblies.

For dealing most of the issues within the country, eternal power lies within the hands of the Prime minister. He is the single most important figure to run the affairs of the country. Like it or not, the state is also being somewhat governed by the prime minister. He is responsible for appointing bureaucrats and giving promotions to them. Not only this he also have the indirect authority to make a transfer of any bureaucrat, which he thinks is not working according to the norms stated by law.

One of the most important factors that probably have and will keep on having a strong influence over the system of government is “the Pak Army”. It has ruled the country for almost 35 years and can heavily influence the decisions taken by democratic governments. Although Pakistan reached the highest development rates during these military regimes but such decisions had  been taken during these regimes which have resulted in long term consequences for the country.

Probably popped up in the last decade, another important factor that is becoming an obstacle in the smooth running of government is the non-state actor commonly known to us as the “Taliban”. Although there is negative peace throughout the globe, but these terrorist organizations have caused many countries to change their laws and system. Pakistan has remained in a state of war against these terrorists for almost a decade. Huge sums of money have been drained in this war; most importantly the lives of hundreds of thousands of innocent people have lost their lives and more are dying every day.

No matter how distributed the nation might be, or how weak its system might be, the ultimate question that needs to be addressed is that whether with so many influences and pressures from different sides, will Pakistan be able to sustain its system of Government and sovereignty or not.