Instability has become a common political aspect of Pakistan. The current political turmoil has been going on for months since the dismissal of Imran Khan — as the Prime Minister of Pakistan — after losing a no-confidence vote in parliament. But, according to multiple sources including the BBC, the latest turmoil occurred because of the arrest of the former premier over a corruption case while he appeared in the Islamabad High Court this month. Many people carried out protests in several provinces of Pakistan in reaction to the arrest, leading to the death of several protesters and the arrest of several hundred. But the relentless political instability in the economically troubled country may be troublesome for it in political, economic and other terms.
It is pertinently notable that the political instability in Pakistan is often indicated to be caused by the powerful military of the country. Definitely, the involvement of the military in politics is not there in Pakistan only. Military coup frequently occurs in many countries in the world. Also, the military’s influence in the determination of political affairs, without its staying in state power, occurs in many countries. This is probably because of several causes including an inadequate development of political institutions and the military’s greed to hold power. Pakistan is one of those countries which have experienced several military coups and decades of military rule since their independence. Though it is the mostly held criticism that the military of Pakistan is solely responsible for the unstable politics and the inadequate development of political institutions in Pakistan, the failure of the politicians of Pakistan is not negligible at all.
Definitely, there are also economic, social and other troubles in Pakistan, a nuclear power South Asian country. The country is recovering from the 2022-23 economic crisis with dwindling forex reserves, nationwide power cuts and high inflation caused by the mismanagement of the economy, political problems and other causes. While political trouble has increased the recent economic crisis, the recent turmoil is also rendered to be facilitated by the economic crisis. Moreover, Pakistan has been facing threats from extremists for decades, despite they have reduced recently. But — whatever the reason for the political instability may be — the frequent involvement of the military in internal affairs, along with inadequate development of political institutions, makes Pakistan difficult to progress smoothly in political, economic and other terms.
It is desired that Pakistan moves towards political stability, not only for stable political development but also for the improvement of economic and other aspects. For this, a strong commitment of political leaders is crucial. Notably, there is a lack of commitment among the political leaders of Pakistan to make its political institutions strengthened. But an earnest intention of the powerful military of Pakistan is crucial to improve political institutions and make the country politically stable. Definitely, putting emphasis on other aspects including economic is also imperative for the trouble-hit country. But planned efforts and improved economic management will be helpful for the economic improvement of the country.
Amir M Sayem
Chief Editor
Dhaka Opinion Magazine
