July 5 is a day in the history of Pakistan that is not merely a significant date, but a turning point that has had an impact on the political, constitutional and democratic journey of the country. Some events in the history of nations stand out in every way and make us think about the passage of time, because they have the power to show how trust in the constitution, institutions and the people can endure and be strengthened.

July 5, 1977, is also such a decisive phase in the history of Pakistan. At that time, the country was facing a crisis. There was a difference between the government and the opposition, but the hope of this country remained that a solution to the political crisis would be found through constitutional and democratic means. However, the situation took such a turn that the democratic process was interrupted, and the effects of Pakistan entering a period lasting many years were felt on state institutions and behaviour.

The real power of democracy is that it provides a way to find dialogue instead of conflict in order to resolve differences of opinion. Parliament, constitutionalism, political process and public opinion are the pillars on which a genuine democratic state is based. Whenever there is a weakness in these pillars, its effects are not limited to the government alone but are paid for by the nation as a whole.

When martial law was imposed in the country on July 5, 1977, it was argued that this measure was for economic development and its purpose was to normalise the situation and pave the way for new elections. However, history has proven that this transitional period was prolonged, and Pakistan ran under a different political system for many years.

The study of history teaches us that the real strength of any state is not the change in governments, but the supremacy of the constitution, its stability and the trust of the people. When all organisations promote state stability by fulfilling their responsibilities within their constitutional jurisdiction, while stagnation in the political process slows down evolution.

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto holds a prominent place in the political history of Pakistan. He made the common man a part of national politics and made workers, youth and the middle class feel that they could play an active role in the political........

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