Degeneration and Failure of Pakistan: An Analysis of Ashraf Jahangir Qazi’s (a former Ambassador of Pakistan) Perspective
Ashraf Jahangir Qazi’s article paints a grim picture of Pakistan’s socio-political landscape, particularly following October 20-21, 2024, described as a critical moment in the nation’s troubled history. He critiques the constitutional amendment passed during this period, condemning it as an orchestrated effort by a compromised parliament and military establishment to undermine the Constitution, erode judicial independence, and cement authoritarianism. His narrative captures a sense of national crisis, rooted in a decades-long history of military overreach, political dysfunction, and elite exploitation. It offers a call for reform centred on democratic renewal and social justice.
The 26th Amendment: A Constitutional Betrayal
The 26th Amendment, Qazi argues, represents the culmination of Pakistan’s institutional degradation. Secretly passed, it has been widely criticized, including by the International Commission of Jurists (ICJ), for undermining judicial independence and the rule of law. According to Qazi, this amendment legitimizes continued military dominance under the guise of constitutional governance, reducing the 1973 Constitution—a symbol of national unity—to a “mockery of itself.”
Qazi likens the implications of this amendment to Pakistan’s most humiliating historical episodes, such as the 1971 loss of East Pakistan. However, he differentiates between the external military defeat in 1971 and the current self-inflicted political and constitutional collapse, which he sees as a domestic assault on the very foundations of the state.
Historical Context and Military Influence
Qazi traces Pakistan’s decline to the judicial execution of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto in 1979, orchestrated by General Zia-ul-Haq. Since then, the military, which played no role in Pakistan’s founding and contributed to its disintegration in 1971, has continually subverted democratic governance. The prioritization of a “praetorian security state” over a democratic, developmental state has derailed Pakistan’s potential. This militarized approach, justified by the perceived threat from India, has come at the expense of education, healthcare, and socio-economic infrastructure, perpetuating inequality and disenfranchisement.
Qazi contends that the military and civilian elites have colluded in siphoning national wealth and maintaining an exploitative system. He criticizes their failure to adopt inclusive policies or long-term strategies for national development, leaving Pakistan ill-prepared to meet the challenges of the 21st century.
The Role of Elites and Intelligentsia
Qazi extends his critique to Pakistan’s civilian elites and intelligentsia. The feudal, urban, and capitalist elites have perpetuated systemic corruption and resisted essential reforms, compounding the state’s failures. The intelligentsia, meanwhile, is accused of normalizing this dysfunction, betraying their responsibility to challenge injustice and uphold democratic values.
Highlighting Noam Chomsky’s concept of intellectual responsibility, Qazi, therefore, calls on the intelligentsia to confront their complacency. Moreover, the lack of collective outrage over constitutional subversion, he argues, consequently reflects a moral and intellectual paralysis that has, in turn, enabled Pakistan’s decline.
Rising Opposition and the Role of Imran Khan
In Qazi’s view, the growing discontent among Pakistan’s youth, women, and marginalized communities marks the beginning of a potential political awakening. These groups have become increasingly aware of their exploitation due to widespread corruption, economic disparity, and social media’s reach. This awakening has been galvanized by the leadership of Imran Khan, whom Qazi credits with fostering hope and resilience among the masses.
Despite criticisms of his tenure as Prime Minister, Khan’s steadfastness in the face of persecution has cemented his bond with the people. His political salience, Qazi asserts, lies in his ability to challenge the entrenched military-led establishment and inspire confidence in a better future. However, he also acknowledges Khan’s flaws, particularly his inability to discern trustworthy allies, which undermined his governance.
Challenges to Democratic Revival
The entrenched “miltablishment”—a term coined by Qazi to describe the military-industrial elite—remains a formidable obstacle to democratic progress. Its dominance has suppressed dissent and manipulated political processes to maintain control. The events of October 20-21, 2024, exemplify this ruthlessness, as the state resorted to force to stifle opposition and constitutional integrity.
Qazi warns that the establishment’s fear of losing control may lead to desperate measures, including attempts to permanently remove figures like Imran Khan. Such actions, he argues, could provoke widespread unrest and further erode the state’s legitimacy.
The Path Forward: Justice, Reconciliation, and Renewal
To reverse this decline, Qazi advocates for a justice and reconciliation process that holds corrupt elites accountable while offering them a path to redemption. He envisions a transformation in which the nation collectively confronts its past, returns looted wealth, and rebuilds its institutions on democratic principles. Such a process, he argues, requires the military to relinquish its political role and respect the Constitution as a living document owned by the people.
Qazi calls for a new generation of leaders, including figures like Manzoor Pashteen and Mahrang Baloch, to spearhead this renewal. He emphasizes the need for inclusive political movements, such as a reformed Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), to unite diverse voices in the pursuit of national transformation.
International Dynamics and the Diaspora’s Role
Qazi highlights the complicity of foreign powers, particularly the United States, in supporting Pakistan’s authoritarian tendencies. He urges the Pakistani diaspora to leverage their influence in countries like the US and UK to advocate for democratic values and sanctions against domestic oppressors. By aligning with the aspirations of the Pakistani people, the diaspora can play a pivotal role in shaping international pressure for reform.
Conclusion: A Moment of Reckoning
The events of October 20-21, 2024, represent a turning point in Pakistan’s history. Qazi frames this moment as a battle for the soul of the nation, with the people confronting a stark choice: resignation to continued degradation or a collective struggle for survival and dignity. He acknowledges the enormity of the task ahead but remains cautiously optimistic about the potential for renewal.
Imran Khan, despite his imperfections, symbolizes the aspirations of a populace yearning for justice and progress. For Qazi, the ultimate test lies in respecting the will of the people and committing to a democratic future. Only by confronting its past and embracing inclusive governance can Pakistan overcome its challenges and secure its survival as a united and prosperous state.
