Restoration of Democracy under Siege: A Study of Junejo Government in Pakistan 1985-1988

Abstract

This study poses following theoretical questions: What methods and procedures do the military rulers adopt for transition? How far the civilian regimes established by military rulers are genuinely civilian and powerful? How do the top commanders attempt to protect and promote their interests in the political system once they disengage from direct military rule? The study focuses on the Junejo government (1985-1988) which presents the first phase of transition from military to civilian rule after the lifting of martial law in 1985, following constitutional amendment and holding party-less elections. It concludes that the relinquishing of power by the military is not a real transition to democracy. Military institutes its permanent role in the political system to protect its corporate and organizational interests. The complete disengagement of military from decision making and governance is not seen in any of the post-military states in the recent past. General Zia did the same through the Eighth Amendment to the 1973 Constitution in 1985. This amendment was used to dismiss elected governments throughout the period of 1985-1999.