One of the biggest problems Pakistan faces as a nation is political instability due to which democracy could not take root in the country. Political instability also leads to economic instability. The question is how Pakistan can be made politically stable so that the government and the people can get on with the task of nation building.

A few days ago, the convener of the newly-formed Awaam Pakistan (AP) party said that political stability cannot be achieved in a country where elections are rigged. “Every system in the world has been tried in this country, and now it’s time to turn to the Constitution,” former prime minister Shahid Khaqan Abbasi emphasised during the launch event of the ‘Foundation and Vision Document’ for the AP manifesto. He argued that in the event of a rigged election “the country doesn’t function because no one adheres to their oaths,” adding that without reforms, the country will not move forward.

Political instability has been a persistent issue since the birth of Pakistan in 1947. The country’s history is marked by frequent changes in government, military coups, political corruption, and economic challenges. Since its inception, the military has played a dominant role in Pakistan’s politics, leading to several military coups (1958, 1977, 1999) and an ongoing civil-military imbalance. The military’s involvement in governance is a major reason why democratic institutions have remained underdeveloped.

The repeated interruptions in democratic processes have weakened civilian institutions. Each military intervention has set back the development of democratic norms and practices. The judiciary has at times been co-opted by military and civilian rulers to legitimize unconstitutional actions, further eroding trust in democratic processes.

Two other elements in political instability are corruption and bad governance. Widespread corruption among politicians has eroded public trust in the government. This includes the misuse of public funds, nepotism, and patronage politics. Weak rule of law is also a big problem. The inconsistency in law enforcement and the judicial system’s susceptibility to influence have contributed to the instability, as justice is not equally accessible to all citizens.

Pakistan is home to various ethnic groups, including Punjabis, Sindhis, Baloch, Pashtuns, and Mohajirs. Ethnic divisions have often been manipulated for political gain, leading to unrest and violence. On the other hand, high levels of poverty, unemployment, and inflation have fueled public discontent, making it easier for political movements to mobilize against the government.

Pakistan’s location, particularly its proximity to Afghanistan and India, has subjected it to external pressures, including involvement in regional conflicts and dependency on foreign military and economic aid. In the opinion of some experts Pakistan’s strategic alliances, especially with the US and China, have influenced its internal politics, exacerbating internal tensions.

The million dollar question is how Pakistan can be put on the road to democratic continuity and political stability. The first step towards this goal is to strengthen democratic institutions. This requires recalibrating civil-military relations and reducing the military’s role in politics. This can be achieved through reforms that enhance civilian oversight of the military and ensure that military leaders are held accountable under civilian law.

At the same time, strengthening the independence of the judiciary is crucial for upholding the rule of law and ensuring that all citizens, including political leaders, are equal before the law. Implementing strict anti-corruption laws and ensuring that they are enforced without bias can help restore public confidence in the political system. Promoting transparency in government operations and holding public officials accountable through independent watchdogs can reduce corruption, ensuring political and economic stability.

Policies that promote social integration and equitable development across different regions can reduce ethnic tensions. Educational reforms that promote national unity and understanding among different ethnic groups can also be beneficial.

Economic reforms to improve the lot of the common man can go a long way in ensuring a stable political system. Focusing on sustainable economic development that creates jobs and reduces poverty is critical. Economic policies should be inclusive and aimed at reducing inequality. Diversifying the economy and reducing reliance on foreign aid can help stabilize the economy and reduce external influences on domestic politics. Increasing political awareness and education among the populace can lead to more informed voting patterns and stronger civic participation, reducing the appeal of populist and extremist movements. Another way to strengthen democracy is to encourage active civic engagement through community organizations, as civil society can help hold the government accountable and ensure that it remains responsive to the needs of its citizens. Addressing political instability in Pakistan requires a multifaceted approach that includes reforming institutions, promoting economic development, and fostering national unity. Sustainable solutions will need the commitment of both the political leadership and the broader society.