Constitutional democracy
The Islamic Republic of Pakistan is a constitutional democracy. And a constitutional democracy is a “system of government based on popular sovereignty” in which the “authority of the majority is…
Towards constitutional democracy
In a tyrannical government, the ruler becomes corrupt and uses his power to further his own interests instead of working for the common good-Aristotle, The Athenian Constitution Ruin comes when…
Constitutional democracy and rule of law
What title best describes the form of government envisioned by the Pakistan’s founders, and crystallised in the Constitution of 1973? The question may have originated in the realm of political…
Constitutional crossroads
The 26th Amendment to Pakistan’s constitution is more than a procedural adjustment – it represents a seismic shift in the balance of power between parliament and the judiciary. Passed with…
Democracy under attack
Despite its shortcomings democracy is widely hailed as the best-known system of governance known to mankind. It ensures participation and will of the people to prevail. Historians believe that democracy…
Democracy’s missing link
After weeks-long back and forth due to deliberations, the entire polity of Pakistan reached a consensus on the 26th Amendment. It may not be considered a watershed moment in the…
Ailing democracy
AT a time when democracy across the world is under challenge, there have recently been a number of developments, some that may shape its future trajectory. Elections in India saw the…
Constitutional amendments
CONSTITUTIONAL office holders, including superior court judges and legislators, swear an oath when assuming office. The oath requires them to act in accordance with the Constitution. Does this mean they…
Renewing democracy
FOLLOWING Liaquat Ali Khan’s assassination in 1951, Pakistan witnessed a carousel of prime ministers, with six leaders in seven years, each serving an average term of 14 months. The wobbly…
Better democracy
PAKISTAN’S electoral history is a tale of evolving political consciousness, as evidenced by voter turnout oscillations. The dismally low 44 per cent turnout in 2008, a manifestation of public scepticism,…
