By Syed Atiq ul Hassan
Pakistan stands at a precarious crossroads, where personal ambitions and a lust for power seem to overshadow the country’s ideological foundation and the well-being of its people. Today, a new chapter of political controversy unfolds, as the reins of power are poised to shift from one scandal-ridden dynasty to another. This is not the first time such a shift has occurred; history reveals similar patterns, most notably under the leadership of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, whose political manoeuvres and personal ambitions led to the disintegration of Pakistan.
Bhutto’s Role in the Separation of East Pakistan
Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, one of the most polarizing figures in Pakistan’s history, played a pivotal role in the country’s darkest chapter: the separation of East Pakistan and the creation of Bangladesh. In the 1970 general elections, Sheikh Mujibur Rahman’s Awami League won a clear majority, securing the mandate to form the government. However, Bhutto, driven by his personal political ambitions, refused to accept this democratic outcome.
He famously declared, “I will break the legs of anyone who goes to the Dhaka Assembly.” This incendiary statement exacerbated tensions between East and West Pakistan. Bhutto actively obstructed negotiations with the Awami League and aligned himself with the military leadership’s oppressive approach toward East Pakistan. These actions culminated in civil unrest, military operations, and ultimately, the secession of East Pakistan, giving birth to Bangladesh in 1971.
Consolidation of Power in West Pakistan
In the aftermath of this national tragedy, Bhutto skilfully maneuverer to consolidate his power in West Pakistan. He emerged as the dominant political figure, exploiting the void left by the military’s failure in East Pakistan. His rise to power followed a calculated trajectory:
- Civilian Martial Law Administrator: In the wake of East Pakistan’s secession, Bhutto was appointed as the “Civilian Martial Law Administrator,” marking his initial foothold in absolute power.
- President of Pakistan: Bhutto soon elevated himself to the presidency, further solidifying his authority.
- Prime Minister: Following the adoption of the 1973 Constitution, Bhutto secured his position as Pakistan’s first “elected” Prime Minister, leveraging his party’s majority in the National Assembly.
Exploiting Ethnic and Regional Divides
Bhutto’s tenure was marked by controversial policies that deepened ethnic and linguistic divides. In Sindh, he institutionalized rural-urban segregation, fostering resentment between Sindhi and Urdu-speaking communities. By exploiting such divisions, he aimed to position himself as the champion of Sindhi nationalism while marginalizing his political opponents.
The Zardari-Bhutto Legacy Continues
Fast forward to today, Pakistan faces a similar dilemma as the political elite once again attempts to perpetuate dynastic rule. The latest contender is Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the grandson of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and son of Asif Ali Zardari. Bilawal is poised to inherit the premiership, not through merit but through the same entrenched system of political favouritism that has plagued Pakistan for decades.
Bilawal’s lineage itself raises questions about accountability and the perpetuation of corruption. His maternal grandfather, Hakeem Ali Zardari, openly criticized Pakistan and its founding father, Muhammad Ali Jinnah, and fled the country after embezzling billions. Bilawal’s father, Asif Ali Zardari, earned the infamous moniker “Mr. Ten Percent” for institutionalizing corruption during his political tenure. By manipulating a forged will, Zardari seized control of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) after the assassination of his wife, Benazir Bhutto, and eventually rose to the presidency—twice elected, despite widespread allegations of corruption.
A Grave Warning for the Nation
The possibility of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari ascending to the highest office in Pakistan serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of political apathy. If history is any guide, the military establishment, often complicit in such transitions, may succeed in installing yet another controversial figure at the helm of the nation. If this happens, the ideological foundation of Pakistan—its very raison d’être—may face irrevocable damage.
The people of Pakistan must recognize the urgency of the moment. Silence and inaction have historically empowered corrupt elites and weakened the nation’s democratic fabric. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s political legacy serves as a cautionary tale of how unchecked power and personal ambition can dismantle a nation. Today, as Bilawal Bhutto Zardari steps into the limelight, Pakistanis must question whether they are willing to repeat the mistakes of the past.
The conclusion is, from Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto’s divisive politics to the current rise of Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, the narrative of dynastic power and systemic corruption remains unbroken. It is imperative for the people of Pakistan to reject these cycles of exploitation and demand leadership that prioritizes the nation over personal and familial interests. Only then can Pakistan’s ideological and democratic integrity be preserved.
(The writer is a Sydney-based journalist a political analyst and editor, Tribune International, Australia. Recipient of harmony, peace and lifetime achievements Awards. His email address is shassan@tribune-intl.com ).
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