The history of dictatorships in Muslim countries across the world is full of lessons. In most Middle Eastern nations, monarchies and military dictators remained in power for decades. Some of these rulers were military men as well, yet on the surface, these countries appeared prosperous. Foreigners went there in search of employment, expatriates found good jobs, and signs of development were clearly visible.
The main reason was that these rulers had no fear of losing power, so they made decisions entirely according to their own will—whether good or bad.
It is also a fact that these countries still possess immense wealth due to their mineral resources, oil, gas, and other means. But when the Arab Spring began in Tunisia and then spread rapidly to other countries, the wealth, assets, bank balances, and palaces of these dictators became exposed before the public. This revelation ignited a fire of hatred in people’s hearts. As a result, the dictators met a humiliating fate before the world—some lost power, some ended up in prison, and some lost their lives.
All of this stands as a clear warning for future
genration
What is unfortunate is that even today many countries have such self-appointed custodians of the state who wish to retain absolute control throughout their lives.
In some places, military forces repeatedly overthrow and install governments, while in others they themselves rule unchallenged for 35 to 40 years. And if their hunger for power still remains, they paralyze democratic forces to such an extent that democracy becomes democracy only in name.
The condition of Pakistan today is visible to the entire world. The question is: during these 78 years of history, how much real progress has the country achieved?
If we compare our economy, public issues, and overall situation with Bangladesh, India, and Sri Lanka, the picture appears extremely alarming. This does not mean that the entire military should be blamed, because in any institution, only a few policymakers are responsible for major decisions, yet some decisions clearly seem to go against the national interest.
Recently, in the preparation of the 26th, 27th, and now 28th constitutional amendments—crafted through the collaboration of military powers and so-called democratic contractors—there is no
discussion anywhere about public issues.
The entire country has
become a victim of the clash between two individuals.
To eliminate one political party and bury its leader, the events of May 9 are being used as justification for political revenge. On the other hand, it seems as if the same person—or the same general—wants to keep all authority in his hands again and again, seeking extensions or promotions to prolong his rule. Such behavior is contrary to the basic principles of justice.
Today, neither justice is visible in the country nor does the judiciary enjoy the credibility it once had. Justice has been laid to rest. Across the world, the perception has spread that judgments are not delivered independently but dictated from elsewhere. The conduct of the courts themselves testifies to the fact that the judicial system is under intense pressure.
When overseas Pakistanis hear about the situation back home, their hearts bleed. They wish for a peaceful country where their families are safe, where friends and relatives can live in tranquility, and where Pakistan moves toward progress. But sadly, conditions are deteriorating day by day, causing deep sorrow and disappointment for us expatriates.
It is also regrettable that the teachings of the founder of Pakistan, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, are being ignored.
In his address at Quetta, Quaid-e-Azam clearly stated that
“the duty of the army is to defend the borders, and the affairs of the state must be run through democratically elected institutions.” But instead of adhering to this principle, certificates of treason are being distributed, and the media has been turned into a spectacle.
The events of May 9, 2023, including the burning of the Corps Commander’s House (often called Jinnah House), became one of the most polarizing political moments in recent Pakistani history. Whether the state’s response was “fair” depends on how we evaluate several principles: rule of law, proportionality, individual vs. collective responsibility, and political neutrality of institutions.
All of this is before our eyes—it is not a tale from centuries ago. Over the past 40 to 50 years, we have witnessed with our own eyes the humiliating end of dictators in the Muslim world. Yet we are still unwilling to learn lessons. In the end, we will all have to answer to Allah SWT. No matter how long the rope of power may be, it eventually breaks.
May Allah grant all of us guidance—our rulers and our people—and enable us to walk on the path of truth, justice, and democracy. Ameen.
“Waan Laysa Lil
Insana illa ma’ sa’aa “
That man can have nothing but what he strives for.
