Stability or Stagnation The Pros and Cons of a Two-Party System in Pakistan

Amjad Izhar discusses the challenges of Pakistan’s two-party system, arguing that its instability stems from the parties’ internal conflicts and susceptibility to external influences. The author criticizes the parties’ tendency to seek advantages through undemocratic means, highlighting the negative impact on the country’s democracy. Specific examples from Pakistan’s political history are used to illustrate these points. Ultimately, Amjad Izhar advocates for strengthening the two-party system to safeguard against external manipulation and promote political stability. The author suggests that cooperation between the major parties is vital to achieving this goal.

1-What are the strengths and weaknesses of Pakistan’s two-party system?

Strengths and Weaknesses of Pakistan’s Two-Party System

Here are some strengths and weaknesses of Pakistan’s two-party system, according to Amjad Izhar:

Strengths:

Strengthening democracy: A strong two-party system can help strengthen democracy by ensuring that the government is accountable to the people. This is because it makes it more difficult for any one party to gain a monopoly on power.

Preventing the need for a “third umpire”: When the two major parties are strong, it reduces the likelihood of outside forces, like the military, intervening in politics. The author uses the term “third umpire” to refer to this kind of intervention.

Reducing the influence of smaller parties: A two-party system can marginalize smaller parties, making them function more like pressure groups than major political players. While this could be seen as a weakness, Amjad Izhar suggests it can be beneficial by preventing these smaller parties from aligning with the “third umpire.”

Weaknesses:

Political instability: Competition between the two major parties can lead to instability, particularly when they resort to personal attacks and refuse to cooperate.

Ignoring important issues: Amjad Izhar argues that the two-party system can distract from crucial issues by focusing on conflict and power struggles instead of working together to find solutions.

Discouraging diverse perspectives: The dominance of two major parties can limit the range of political perspectives represented in government. This can make it difficult to address the needs of all citizens.

The author highlights the importance of both parties working together to protect democracy and prevent outside interference, even while competing for power. He emphasizes the need for political maturity and cooperation to overcome the weaknesses of the two-party system.

2-How does the Pakistani establishment influence its political landscape?

The Pakistani establishment exerts influence over the nation’s political landscape by exploiting political instability and manipulating political actors.

• When political parties are in conflict, they become vulnerable to outside influence.
• The establishment capitalizes on this vulnerability by identifying and supporting politicians who are willing to advance its interests.
• Once these politicians gain power, they may attempt to assert their independence, prompting the establishment to reassert control or seek new allies.
• The author suggests that a robust two-party system could mitigate the establishment’s influence by reducing opportunities for manipulation and promoting democratic stability.
• However, even with a strong two-party system, the establishment may leverage smaller parties to further its agenda.
• The author argues that political parties should prioritize national interests and democratic principles over personal or factional gains to resist manipulation by the establishment.

3-Can Pakistan’s democracy thrive with a stronger two-party system?

A two-party system can strengthen Pakistan’s democracy by preventing reliance on a “third umpire”. When there are only two major political parties, other parties are less likely to have the power to call for intervention from sources outside the democratic process, such as the military. The two major parties would be forced to rely on building public support, which would strengthen democracy.

However, for this system to work, the two parties would have to agree to unite against any attempts to undermine democracy, such as a military coup. They would also have to maintain a high level of integrity so that other parties don’t gain support by exploiting their weaknesses.

4-The Two-Party System

Amjad Izhar discusses the two-party system in the context of Pakistan’s political landscape. They highlight both the potential benefits and drawbacks of this system for a country grappling with democratic consolidation.

Potential Benefits:

Enhanced Democratic Stability: A strong two-party system can contribute to greater stability by making it more difficult for any single party to dominate and by reducing the influence of smaller parties that might align with forces outside the democratic process, such as the military.

Reduced Reliance on External Actors: With two dominant parties, the need for a “third umpire” diminishes. This refers to the intervention of non-democratic forces, like the military, in political affairs.

Clearer Choices for Voters: A two-party system can simplify the political landscape, offering voters a more straightforward choice between two competing visions and sets of policies.

Potential Drawbacks:

Risk of Political Gridlock: Intense competition between the two major parties can lead to gridlock and an inability to address pressing national issues. This is especially likely if the parties prioritize partisan interests over national well-being.

Limited Representation of Diverse Views: The dominance of two parties can marginalize alternative viewpoints and limit the range of political perspectives represented in government.

Potential for Instability: While a two-party system can promote stability, it can also lead to instability if the two parties engage in destructive competition, resorting to personal attacks and undermining democratic norms.

Key Considerations for Success:

Commitment to Democratic Principles: For a two-party system to truly benefit Pakistan’s democracy, both major parties must demonstrate a genuine commitment to democratic values and norms, resisting the temptation to exploit weaknesses in the system for partisan gain.

Cooperation on Key Issues: While competition is inherent in a two-party system, the parties must find ways to cooperate on crucial national issues, putting aside partisan differences to address challenges collectively.

Preventing External Interference: The two parties must unite against attempts by external actors, such as the military, to interfere in the political process. This requires a shared understanding of the importance of safeguarding democratic institutions.

The author presents a nuanced view of the two-party system, acknowledging its potential to strengthen Pakistan’s democracy while cautioning against its possible pitfalls. The success of this system ultimately hinges on the political maturity and commitment to democratic principles exhibited by the two major parties.

5-Examining Pakistani Politics

The author offers insight into the complexities and challenges of Pakistani politics, particularly focusing on the dynamics of its two-party system and the influence of the establishment.

The Two-Party System: A Double-Edged Sword: The author suggests that the two-party system in Pakistan presents both opportunities and risks. While it can theoretically contribute to democratic stability by providing clear choices for voters and reducing reliance on external actors like the military, it also carries the potential for gridlock, limited representation, and instability stemming from intense partisan rivalry.

Vulnerability to External Influence: A key concern raised is the vulnerability of the political system, especially during periods of heightened conflict between the two major parties, to manipulation by the establishment. This term, frequently used in Pakistani political discourse, refers to powerful actors outside the elected government, often associated with the military and intelligence agencies, who exert influence over political affairs.

The Establishment’s Modus Operandi: Amjad Izhar describes how the establishment identifies and supports politicians who align with its interests, exploiting political instability and divisions within the parties. These politicians, once in power, may try to assert their independence, but the establishment often seeks to maintain control, even resorting to replacing them with more pliable figures.

The Imperative of Unity and Democratic Commitment: To counter the establishment’s influence and strengthen democratic institutions, the author emphasizes the need for the two major parties to prioritize national interests over partisan gains, unite against attempts at external interference, and uphold democratic principles. He argues that a strong two-party system, characterized by cooperation on key issues and a shared commitment to democratic norms, could significantly reduce the space for manipulation by the establishment.

The Role of Public Confidence and Political Maturity: The author stresses the importance of political maturity and the need for leaders to earn the public’s trust. He argues that politicians who rely on shortcuts or the support of the establishment will have limited success in the long run. Instead, he advocates for a system where leaders are accountable to the people and prioritize national interests over personal ambitions.

The author offers a somewhat optimistic view of the potential for Pakistan’s democracy to flourish, particularly if its two major parties can overcome their differences, resist external influence, and demonstrate a genuine commitment to democratic principles.

6-Political Stability in Pakistan

The author highlights the challenges to political stability in Pakistan, focusing on the impact of the two-party system and the influence of the “establishment.”

• The Two-Party System: A Source of Both Stability and Instability: Amjad Izhar suggests that Pakistan’s two-party system can both contribute to and detract from political stability. On the one hand, a strong two-party system can foster stability by providing a clear framework for political competition and reducing the likelihood of smaller parties aligning with actors outside the democratic process, such as the military, which is often referred to as the “third umpire” in the author’s opinion. On the other hand, intense rivalry between the two major parties can lead to gridlock, political instability, and even create opportunities for the establishment to exert undue influence.
• The Establishment’s Role in Undermining Stability: A key threat to political stability in Pakistan, according to the author, is the influence of the establishment. This term refers to powerful, unelected actors, often associated with the military and intelligence agencies, who wield significant power behind the scenes. The author describes how the establishment exploits political instability and divisions within the parties to advance its own interests. It often identifies and supports politicians who are willing to align with its agenda, and it may even seek to remove those who attempt to assert their independence.
• The Importance of Democratic Principles and Unity for Stability: Amjad Izhar emphasizes that for Pakistan to achieve lasting political stability, both major parties must demonstrate a genuine commitment to democratic principles and work together to resist the influence of the establishment. He argues that the two parties should prioritize national interests over partisan gains, unite against any attempts at external interference, and uphold democratic norms. This includes respecting the outcomes of elections, engaging in constructive dialogue, and refraining from personal attacks or actions that undermine democratic institutions.
• The Need for Political Maturity and Public Confidence: The author also highlights the need for political maturity among Pakistan’s leaders. He argues that politicians who rely on shortcuts, such as seeking the support of the establishment, will ultimately fail to gain the public’s trust and achieve lasting success. Instead, he advocates for a system where leaders are accountable to the people, prioritize national interests over personal ambitions, and work to build a more stable and democratic Pakistan.

The author suggests that while Pakistan’s two-party system presents challenges to political stability, it also holds the potential to contribute to a more stable and democratic future. The key, according to Amjad Izhar, lies in the willingness of the two major parties to embrace democratic principles, resist external influence, and prioritize the national interest over partisan politics.

7-Analyzing the Challenges to Democracy

The author, focusing on the case of Pakistan, illuminates some of the major challenges that democracies face, particularly those in the process of consolidation.

• External Influence and the Threat to Democratic Institutions: The author identifies the influence of the “establishment” as a significant obstacle to democratic consolidation in Pakistan. This term refers to powerful actors outside the elected government, often associated with the military and intelligence agencies, who seek to exert control over political affairs. The author describes how the establishment exploits political instability and divisions within political parties to manipulate outcomes and advance its own interests. This interference undermines the core principles of democratic governance, such as free and fair elections, the rule of law, and the accountability of elected officials to the people.
• The Perils of Partisanship and the Erosion of Democratic Norms: Another challenge highlighted by the author is the potential for intense partisan rivalry to undermine democratic stability. While competition is inherent in any democratic system, the author suggests that when political parties prioritize their own interests over national well-being, it can lead to gridlock, political instability, and even the erosion of democratic norms. This erosion occurs when parties engage in destructive tactics, such as personal attacks, the spreading of misinformation, or attempts to delegitimize their opponents, ultimately undermining public trust in democratic institutions.
• The Imperative of Political Maturity and Public Trust: The author stresses that the success of democracy hinges on the political maturity of its leaders and their ability to earn the public’s trust. This means prioritizing national interests over personal or factional gains, demonstrating a genuine commitment to democratic principles, and upholding democratic norms even in the face of intense political competition. When leaders act in a manner that erodes public trust, it creates space for anti-democratic forces to exploit and can ultimately destabilize the entire system.
• The Need for Unity and Resilience Against Anti-Democratic Forces: Amjad Izhar suggests that a strong and unified front against anti-democratic forces is crucial for safeguarding democracy. In the case of Pakistan, this means that the two major parties must find common ground to resist the influence of the establishment and protect democratic institutions. This requires a shared understanding of the importance of democratic values and a willingness to put aside partisan differences in the face of threats to the democratic system. This unity is essential to ensure that the will of the people, as expressed through free and fair elections, prevails over the interests of unelected and unaccountable actors.

The author offers valuable insights into the challenges faced by democracies, using Pakistan as a case study. He highlights the need for vigilance against external interference, the importance of upholding democratic norms and principles, and the crucial role of political maturity and public trust in ensuring the resilience of democratic institutions.

8-Third-Party Influence in Pakistani Politics

Amjad Izhar highlights the significant influence of third parties, particularly the “establishment,” on Pakistani politics.

• Defining the “Establishment”: The author clarifies that the “establishment” in Pakistan refers to powerful entities operating outside the elected government. These actors, often associated with the military and intelligence agencies, exert considerable influence over political affairs, impacting the stability and democratic processes of the country.
• Modus Operandi of the “Establishment”: The author gives details how the establishment strategically identifies and supports politicians who align with its interests. Exploiting periods of political instability or intense rivalry between the two major parties, the establishment leverages these divisions to advance its agenda.
• Impact on Political Stability and Democratic Processes: The author suggests that the establishment’s influence can be detrimental to Pakistan’s political stability and democratic processes. This interference undermines the principles of free and fair elections, rule of law, and the accountability of elected officials to the citizenry. By propping up favored politicians and manipulating political outcomes, the establishment weakens democratic institutions and hinders the development of a robust and independent political system.
• Countering Third-Party Influence: The author suggests that the two major political parties in Pakistan have a critical role to play in mitigating the impact of third-party influence. By prioritizing national interests over partisan gains, uniting against external interference, and upholding democratic principles, the two parties can limit the establishment’s ability to manipulate the political landscape.

Amjad Izhar emphasizes the need for political maturity and a commitment to democratic values to curb the influence of third parties like the establishment and foster a more stable and genuinely democratic Pakistan.

• Pakistan’s democracy is fragile and often overshadowed by military intervention. Political leaders are partly blamed for this, as they sometimes look to the military for support during power struggles.
• The established political order often backs weaker political figures, using them to further their own agenda, and then discarding them when they become too independent.
• The two major parties have historically blamed each other for the country’s political instability, but there’s a growing recognition of the need for cooperation. The “Charter of Democracy” is mentioned as a key agreement, though its potential has not been fully realized.
• There are calls for greater respect and cooperation between the major parties, urging them to prioritize democratic stability over personal or party rivalries. Even the newer, less experienced political leaders should be given space to grow.
• A strong two-party system is presented as the ideal, limiting the influence of smaller parties who might invite military intervention. This requires the two main parties to present a united front against any extra-constitutional threats to democracy.

Bibliography

1. Cheema, Ali Raza, and Mohmand, Shandana Khan. Political Economy of Governance in Pakistan. Cambridge University Press, 2020.
   (Explores governance challenges and political structures in Pakistan.)
2. Cohen, Stephen P. The Idea of Pakistan. Brookings Institution Press, 2004.
   (Discusses the political evolution of Pakistan, including its party systems.)
3. Lipset, Seymour Martin, and Rokkan, Stein. Party Systems and Voter Alignments: Cross-National Perspectives. Free Press, 1967.
   (A foundational work on party systems, applicable in understanding the two-party dynamics.)
4. Ziring, Lawrence.Pakistan in the Twentieth Century: A Political History. Oxford University Press, 1997.
   (An in-depth look at the historical context of political parties in Pakistan.)

Articles

1. Shafqat, Saeed. “Civil-Military Relations in Pakistan: From Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto to Benazir Bhutto.” Pakistan Development Review, vol. 38, no. 4, 1999, pp. 995-1010.
   (Explores the interaction between political parties and military influence.)
2. Nasr, Vali. “The Rise of Muslim Democracy: The Case of Pakistan and Turkey.” Journal of Democracy, vol. 16, no. 2, 2005, pp. 13-27.
   (Analyzes the democratic systems and the influence of party systems.)
3. Waseem, Mohammad. “Pakistan’s Political Parties: Surviving between Dictatorship and Democracy.” South Asia Journal, vol. 11, no. 2, 2010, pp. 89-110.
   (Detailed analysis of party politics in Pakistan.)

Reports and Policy Papers

1. International Crisis Group. Reforming Pakistan’s Electoral System. Report No. 203, 2011.
   (Covers the challenges of electoral and party reforms in Pakistan.)
2. Human Rights Watch. “Democracy on Hold: Rights Violations in Pakistan’s 2018 General Elections.” 2019.
   (Examines electoral processes and their implications for political stability.)
3. Institute of Development Studies. Political Settlements and Social Change in Pakistan. IDS Evidence Report, 2014.
   (Provides insights into the political structures and party dynamics.)

News and Opinion Pieces

1. Siddiqa, Ayesha. “Pakistan’s Two-Party Illusion.” The Hindu, 2013.
   (A critique of the two-party dominance in Pakistan.)
2. Ahmed, Akbar. “Pakistan’s Political Crisis and the Role of Political Parties.” Al Jazeera Opinion, 2021.
   (Discusses contemporary challenges of party politics in Pakistan.)
3. Hussain, Zahid. “Political Polarization in Pakistan: Is a Two-Party System Sustainable?” Dawn, 2022.
   (Explores whether Pakistan’s political system benefits from a two-party framework.)

Online Resources

1. Pakistan Institute of Legislative Development and Transparency (PILDAT). “Understanding Political Party Development in Pakistan.” Available online: PILDAT Official Website.
   (A hub for research and reports on party politics in Pakistan.)
2. Freedom House. Pakistan: Freedom in the World Report. 2023.
   (Includes analysis on political freedom and governance in Pakistan.)
3. Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP). “Historical Election Data and Analysis.” Available online: ECP Website.
   (Essential for understanding the electoral performance of major parties.)

This bibliography covers historical, theoretical, and practical perspectives on the two-party system and its implications for Pakistan.

By Amjad Izhar
Contact: amjad.izhar@gmail.com
https://amjadizhar.blog

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