Posts Tagged ‘Democracy’
March Madness Grips Pakistan
The current phase of political frenzy in Pakistan goes beyond the usual uncertainties associated with the country. Pakistan has witnessed opposition to Army rule or military takeover of civilian regimes, but never a popular uprising against a popularly elected Government. Who are the key players in this political drama and what’s motivating them?
Who is Pakistan Marching For - Nawaz Sharif or Iftikhar Choudhry?
The lawyers protest march gets underway in Pakistan defying the ban by President Zardari’s Government. As political instability grips the country speculations of a military take-over are mounting. In the political drama of reinstating Chief Justice Iftikhar Choudhry, Former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif has succeeded in projecting President Zardari as the villain. But is Nawaz Sharif genuinely fighting to uphold the cause of democracy or is he merely fanning anti-Zardari sentiments to serve his political objectives? Much of the evidence supports the latter contention.
Emergence of ‘New Bargainers’ in South Asia - I
Mainstream politics in South Asia is undergoing a major transformation. Recent developments in the region indicate that elements from the extreme left, armed factions, separatist groups and the ideologically marginalized are entering mainstream politics. Is this transformation reflective of wider democratization or radicalization of politics? Click to continue…
Zardari’s confrontation and Gilani’s Reconciliation: Where is Pakistan Headed?
The decision of the Pakistan Supreme Court to uphold the ban on Former P.M. Nawaz Sharif and Punjab C.M. Shahbaz Sharif has initiated a phase of multiple political crises for the country. Since the PML (N) has a majority in the Punjab Assembly and enjoys popular support, the court ruling has ignited a political movement against President Zardari. The PML (N)’s demand for reinstating the judges has widespread political and popular support. The Court decision has not only widened the gulf between the PPP and PML (N), but has also amplified the intra-government fissures. President Zardari’s style of political functioning has come in direct confrontation to that of P.M. Gilani. Coexistence of the two as the country’s top political functionaries appears doubtful. Click to continue…
Omar Abdullah: “J&K elections have handed India a lifeline”
Jammu and Kashmir’s new Chief Minister, Omar Abdullah said in an interview to Reuters today that the recent elections in J&K have handed India a lifeline; referring to an opportunity for the Government of India to refurbish relations with the people of J&K. The very premise of his contention is flawed and overlooks the basic cause of discontent in the state. Omar Abdullah’s assumption and rule (in line with his father Farooq Abdullah) is based on the understanding that discontent in J&K can be addressed if the government of India adopts a more emphatic view and caters to the socio-economic development of the state. His analysis skips over a vital intermediary link between the people of J&K and Government of India – the State Government. In the very first place Omar Abdullah’s government will have to win the confidence of the people of J&K and better comprehend their grievances. Click to continue…
Mumbai Attacks and Resilience of India’s Democracy
The 11/26 terror strikes in Mumbai, India is a reminder of the vulnerability of ’soft targets’ across the globe. 170 people, including 30 foreign nationals, lost their lives in the incident. The terror attacks had raised several questions on the efficiency of the country’s intelligence apparatus and political structure to prevent and manage such brutal attacks on the population. The country is seething with public anger with the political establishment. In the midst of this hysteria and fears of a military confrontation between India and Pakistan, a positive development can be discerned. The democratic process, in principle and practice, has withstood the critical test of unforeseen and aggressive exigencies. It is inspiring and interesting to analyse the performance of democracy in India during this critical crisis. Click to continue…