Nusrat Laghari, USA
July 5, 1977, is a day in Pakistan’s political history that marked the decline of democracy, the end of popular leadership, and the beginning of a long martial law. On that day, General Zia-ul-Haq overthrew the elected government of Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and imposed martial law in the country. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, the founder of the Pakistan People’s Party, was a charismatic leader who emerged in the late 1960s. His slogan of Roti, Kapra and Makan was a dream of a Pakistan that guaranteed the rights of the common man. During his reign, the 1973 constitution was approved, industries were nationalized, and important foreign policy achievements were achieved, including the Islamic Summit Conference of 1974 and close relations with China and Muslim countries. However, his government was also accused of authoritarian behavior, repression of political opponents, and human rights violations. The alleged rigging of the 1977 general elections led to a political crisis in the country, which resulted in military intervention. The eleven-year martial law that followed not only weakened democratic institutions but also fostered religious extremism and social repression in the country. Bhutto was sentenced to death in a controversial case that the public called a political assassination. July 5 is not just a historical event but a reminder of how fragile democracy is. This day reminds us that if we allow our political differences to prevail over the national interest, the entire nation has to bear the consequences. Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s legacy includes democracy, the constitution, public consciousness and struggle. Today, while remembering this day, we must learn from our past so that we can move towards a stable, peaceful and democratic Pakistan.
