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Why Pakistan under General Musharraf failed the democracy test? Provide five valid points in your answer.
Answer:
Answer by Student
Pakistan under General Musharraf failed to meet the criteria of a functioning democracy due to the following reasons:
- Military Coup : General Musharraf came to power through a military coup, overthrowing a democratically elected government. This seizure of power by the military undermines the democratic principles of a government elected by the people.
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- Referendum Controversy : The referendum held in 2002, granting General Musharraf a five-year extension as President, was marred by allegations of malpractices and fraud. The lack of transparency and fairness in the referendum raised doubts about the legitimacy of the process.
- Constitutional Amendments : General Musharraf issued the 'Legal Framework Order' in August 2002, which amended the Constitution of Pakistan. This order granted the President the authority to dismiss national and provincial assemblies, undermining the separation of powers and concentrating significant power in the hands of the executive.
- Dominance of Military Officers: The National Security Council, dominated by military officers, supervised the work of the civilian cabinet. This military influence over the civilian government undermines the principle of civilian control and democratic decision-making.
- Lack of Decision-Making Power for Elected Representative s: Although elections were held for the national and provincial assemblies, the real power to make final decisions rested with General Musharraf and military officials who were not elected by the people. This power imbalance undermines the notion of representative democracy, where elected officials should hold the authority to make crucial decisions on behalf of the citizens.
Overall, these factors highlight the undemocratic nature of General Musharraf's regime in Pakistan, with a concentration of power in the military and the executive, limited decision-making power for elected representatives, and a disregard for the principles of fair and transparent governance.
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