Politics of the Pakhtuns’ Integration in the Federation of Pakistan

Abstract

The politics of NWFP have been of special attention due to political and strategic reasons for the colonial rulers and after independence for the successive governments of Pakistan. No matter what, they have been in power or out of power ANP (Awami National Party) and its predecessor NAP (National Awami Party) remained mostly all over in the politics of Frontier. They have owned and championed the causes of Pakhtuns and also of the people of Frontier at large. Circumstantially and by remaining consistent with ideals of the founding fathers, ANP remained mostly in opposition. Other mainstream parties such as Muslim League, PPP and religious parties challenged its influence and vote bank and skillfully outcaste it from the echelon of powers gives way to a debate whether or not the Nationalist politics have been pragmatic enough to reconcile or coincide with changing political environment or preferred to remain stick to their ideals and course of action. There is a stark difference in the cold war politics and post-cold war politics. In the light of former the main cause of Pakhtun politics that is independent Pakhtunistan proved unfulfilled. However, in the case of later that dream does not seem to be materialized. Because even war on terror has not caused impetus for the demand of joining Afghanistan or declaring independence by the tribes on the Pak-Afghan border, despite military operation for the last four years, though alienation in the tribal Pakhtuns from the Central government is natural. Other causes such as Provincial autonomy, changing the name of NWFP to Pakhtunkhwa, socio-economic reforms, Kalabagh dam and military operations in the tribal areas have the capacity to become rallying point for Pakhtuns and also would bring ANP to the center stage of politics in Frontier.