Chapter # 8 – Political Development in Pakistan 1947-2002

8.5   General Zia-ul-Haq Era (1977-1988)

8.5.1 Discuss the Reasons behind General Zia-ul-Haq Taking Over the Country with Reference to 1977 General Elections.

Background

General Zia-ul-Haq assumed power in Pakistan in July 1977 amidst political turmoil stemming from the controversial 1977 general elections. Allegations of electoral fraud and rigging had sparked mass protests and unrest across the country, with the opposition demanding the resignation of the government and fresh elections. Seizing the opportunity, General Zia orchestrated a military coup on July 5, 1977, overthrowing the civilian government led by Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. The military intervention was justified as necessary to restore law and order amidst the breakdown of governance and civil unrest. This marked the beginning of a period of military rule under General Zia, with significant implications for Pakistan’s political landscape.

Reasons behind General Zia-ul-Haq taking over the country with reference to 1977 general elections.

1. Civil Unrest and Election Rigging: The 1977 general elections in Pakistan were marred by allegations of widespread rigging and electoral fraud. The ruling Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), led by Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was accused of manipulating the electoral process to secure victory. The main opposition party, the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA), protested vehemently against the perceived electoral fraud, demanding a fair and transparent electoral process. The contentious nature of the elections fueled civil unrest across the country, with mass demonstrations and protests calling for accountability and electoral reforms.
2. Agitation and Delayed Negotiations: As civil unrest intensified in the aftermath of the disputed elections, both the PPP and the PNA engaged in protracted negotiations to resolve the election dispute. However, the negotiations were fraught with challenges, and the prolonged delay in reaching a resolution only exacerbated the political crisis. Despite efforts to find common ground, the deep-seated mistrust and polarization between the two political factions hindered progress, prolonging the period of uncertainty and instability.
3. Zia-ul-Haq’s Role: General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, then Chief of Army Staff, played a pivotal role in the unfolding political drama. Frustrated by the impasse and the failure of negotiations to yield results, Zia-ul-Haq decided to intervene in the political affairs of the country. As a powerful figure within the military establishment, he wielded significant influence and commanded the loyalty of the armed forces, providing him with the means to enforce his authority and effect change.
4. Declaration of Martial Law: On July 5, 1977, General Zia-ul-Haq made a decisive move by declaring martial law, effectively assuming control of the country. The declaration of martial law marked a dramatic escalation of the political crisis, as it suspended the constitutional rights and freedoms of the citizens and centralized power in the hands of the military. Zia-ul-Haq ordered the arrest of Prime Minister Bhutto and other prominent political leaders, solidifying his grip on power and paving the way for military rule.
5. Public Perception of Military Intervention: Despite the controversial nature of the military coup, General Zia-ul-Haq initially enjoyed some level of public support, as many Pakistanis were disillusioned with the perceived corruption and mismanagement of the civilian government. There was a widespread perception that military intervention was necessary to address the political crisis and restore order. However, this support waned over time as General Zia’s regime became increasingly authoritarian and repressive.

In summary, General Zia-ul-Haq’s takeover of Pakistan in 1977 was primarily driven by the controversial 1977 general elections, which were marked by allegations of electoral fraud and widespread protests. The political instability and civil unrest that followed provided an opportunity for military intervention, which General Zia seized upon to assume power. Despite initial public support, General Zia’s regime was characterized by authoritarian rule and a suppression of civil liberties, leading to widespread criticism and opposition.