2024: The Darkest Year for Pakistan’s Democracy
- Controversial Elections and Institutional Failures: The February elections were marred by widespread rigging, undermining the people's will. The Election Commission was criticized for incompetence, and the Supreme Court labeled it ineffective.
- Erosion of Democratic Integrity: Coercive legislation, secretive amendments, and forced extensions for armed forces chiefs shifted power to the executive, further diminishing parliamentary autonomy.
- Suppression of Freedoms and Opposition: Crackdowns on free speech, a ban on the Pashtun Tahafuz Movement, and the storming of parliament reflected a systemic assault on democratic principles and dissent.
2024 marks a disheartening chapter in Pakistan’s democratic history, characterized by alarming developments that severely eroded democratic norms. Five major events stand out as milestones of this decline, collectively portraying a nation veering toward authoritarianism.
Controversial General Elections
The general elections of 2024 were overshadowed by widespread allegations of pre- and post-poll rigging designed to exclude a prominent political party from the electoral race. The international community denounced the elections as a fraud against the people’s will. The Election Commission was criticized for failing to uphold its responsibilities, while the Supreme Court labeled it incompetent in fulfilling its constitutional role.
Enforced Legislation
A series of coercive laws further undermined the democratic fabric of Pakistan. Among these was the controversial 26th Amendment, secretly passed to strengthen executive control over the judiciary. The legislation also extended the service tenures of the armed forces’ chiefs, highlighting legislative overreach. Reports of parliamentarians being abducted to ensure the passage of these laws underscored the grave erosion of democratic integrity.
Suppression of Freedom of Speech
Free speech faced relentless suppression as the government imposed stringent controls on mainstream and social media. Internet disruptions, firewalls, and platform restrictions like those on WhatsApp silenced dissent. Journalists, writers, social media activists, and poets were abducted and intimidated for speaking against the regime, marking a stark departure from democratic values.
Ban on Pashtun Tahafuz Movement (PTM)
The Interior Ministry banned PTM, a grassroots movement advocating for Pashtun rights, accusing it of anti-state activities. PTM leaders were detained and subjected to physical and mental abuse, exposing the government’s authoritarian tendencies and its disregard for democratic freedoms.
Storming of Parliament (12th September)
In a shocking violation of democratic norms, dozens of parliamentarians, including members of the opposition, were forcibly arrested from within the parliament building by Rangers and Islamabad police. The lights were switched off during the raid, and legislators were dragged out. The silence of key offices, including the speaker and the prime minister, further undermined the sanctity of the parliament.
Conclusion
These events collectively depict 2024 as a dark year for democracy in Pakistan, where authoritarian measures replaced democratic principles. From undermining electoral integrity to silencing dissent and breaching parliamentary sanctity, the year showcased a draconian state far removed from the ideals of democracy. It is a cautionary tale of the fragility of democratic systems and the urgent need to safeguard democratic values.
