Chapter # 8 – Political Development in Pakistan 1947-2002

8.4 Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Era  (1971-1977)

8.4.1 Discuss the Reasons Behind Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Coming to Power.

Background

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto rose to power in Pakistan in the aftermath of the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, which left the country shattered and divided. Following the surrender of Pakistani troops, East Pakistan emerged as an independent nation on the global stage.

Bhutto assumed the roles of Chief Martial Law Administrator and President, replacing Yahya Khan, in the remaining part of Pakistan. He served as both president and the first Civilian Chief Martial Law Administrator from 1971 to 1973. With the enactment of the 1973 constitution, Bhutto transitioned to the position of Prime Minister of Pakistan until 1977.

Bhutto’s ascent to power was influenced by several key factors, including public anger towards the military regime, widespread support, and Bhutto’s own charisma and statesmanship qualities. However, his tenure as prime minister was short-lived, as he was ousted from power in 1977 and subsequently persecuted by his own appointed Chief of Armed Forces, General Zia-ul-Haq, in 1979.

Reasons Behind Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Coming to Power

1. Public Anger towards the Military Regime: The 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, which resulted in the division of Pakistan and the emergence of Bangladesh, left the country in turmoil. General Yahya Khan’s failure to effectively handle the political situation in East Pakistan and contain Indian-supported rebels (the Mukti Bahini) led to widespread disillusionment with the military regime. People were kept in the dark due to strict censorship, but when news of the surrender and the emergence of Bangladesh reached the public, they were deeply disappointed with the military’s role in aggravating the crisis. General Yahya Khan lost all moral and political legitimacy to remain in power, paving the way for Bhutto’s ascent.
2. Public Support and Popularity of Bhutto: Zulfikar Ali Bhutto was a charismatic and popular politician, known for founding the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP). In the 1970 general elections, PPP secured a significant number of seats in West Pakistan, particularly in Punjab and Sindh. Bhutto’s leadership and vision resonated with the masses, who saw him as the leader capable of navigating the country through its tumultuous history. His popularity and the support of PPP positioned him as a viable alternative to the military regime.
3. Transition to Democracy: Bhutto’s rise marked a transition from military rule to civilian governance. He became Pakistan’s first elected Prime Minister on August 14, 1973, after two years as Chief Martial Law Administrator. His leadership aimed to stabilize the country, address the aftermath of the war, and establish a democratic framework.
4. Charisma and Statesmanship Qualities: Bhutto was regarded as one of the most charismatic leaders Pakistan had seen since its establishment. After the war, with thousands of soldiers held as prisoners of war in Indian jails and a vast area of West Pakistan under Indian occupation, the morale of the armed forces was low. Bhutto’s statesmanship qualities, political charisma, and public support made him the ideal candidate to lead the nation out of this troubled phase. His ability to accept challenges and provide leadership during a critical period in Pakistan’s history ultimately led to his rise to power.

In summary, Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s ascent to power was propelled by public anger towards the military regime, his own popularity and the support of the Pakistan People’s Party, and his charisma and statesmanship qualities, which made him the most suitable leader to guide Pakistan through the aftermath of the 1971 war and the transition to civilian governance.