Empowering provinces
Disruptions in constitutional rule can have dire consequences, leading to political instability, uncertainty, and a breakdown of effective governance. Such interruptions create legal loopholes, weaken institutional foundations, erode public trust, and pave the way for authoritarianism, corruption, and the abuse of power. They also create an enabling environment for dishonest individuals, criminals, and organized crime syndicates to flourish, ultimately undermining the core values of society.
Reflecting on the historical context surrounding the formulation of Pakistan’s constitution is essential. The period of Dominion status from 1947 to 1956, without a constitution, delayed the nation’s transition to a republic. The absence of a drafted constitution during the Pakistan movement raises questions about the lack of concerted efforts to have one for the nascent nation.
The Objectives Resolution, adopted by the Constituent Assembly on March 12th, 1949, holds great significance in this context. It affirms that the sovereignty over the entire universe rests solely with Almighty Allah, with the people of Pakistan entrusted to exercise His authority as a sacred trust. The Objectives Resolution underscores principles such as democracy, freedom, equality, tolerance, and social justice, all rooted in the Islamic framework.
However, the government, comprised largely of former colonial-era bureaucrats seemed to disregard these principles while governing the country. Their policies often favoured the interests of America, their allies, and influential segments of society, prioritizing these over the welfare of the common people of Pakistan.
When the first constitution of Pakistan was drafted, civil and military bureaucrats........
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