FAILURE OF CONSTITUTIONALISM | Pakistan's founding father, Jinnah, set a precedent for authoritarian rule

Introduction:

Pakistan began its political journey in 1947 with a legacy of political modernism but has struggled to establish a stable balance among institutions and a tradition of representative government. Some scholars argue that the concentration of power in the hands of Pakistan's founding father, Jinnah, set a precedent for authoritarian rule.

Historical Context:

Pakistan's political leaders and parties inherited the ideas and institutions of the British Raj but have not lived up to their promise of building a democratic state. Compared to India, the quality and performance of democracy and democratic institutions have been weaker and more inconsistent in Pakistan. Many theories explain Pakistan's political failures, such as a praetorian tradition, authoritarian political culture, agrarian-feudalistic social structure, and imbalances between state institutions and an underdeveloped civil society.

Loss of Visionary Leader:

Pakistan lost its visionary leader, Jinnah, at a critical stage in its development and was left with no coherent political leadership to carry forward his vision of a liberal, democratic Pakistani state. The Muslim League became fragmented and unable to entrench itself in the new nation. Jinnah left a clear vision, constructive ideas, and a rough outline for the future shape of Pakistan, including a republican political vision, a welfare state based on constitutionalism and the rule of law, and a federal parliamentary system with the neutrality of the state among religious communities.

Erosion of Modernist Tradition:

However, after Jinnah's death, his espoused modernist tradition began to erode as political parties focused on personal and regional interests rather than building a strong and cohesive nation. The central authority of the state also weakened, leading to the rise of feudal and tribal leaders who took control at the local level. This trend was further reinforced by military interventions in the political process and the lack of effective civilian oversight of the military.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, Pakistan's political failures can be attributed to various factors, including the loss of a visionary leader, the fragmentation of political parties, and the erosion of modernist traditions. Military interventions and the lack of civilian oversight have also played a role in the country's ongoing political challenges.