By Dr Farid A Malik IN The Nation, Nov 29, 2022
The writer is Ex-Chairman Pakistan Science Foundation
On October 07, 1958, Iskander Mirza, the first President of Pakistan abrogated the 1956 constitution and brought martial law in the country. His ambition was short-lived. On October 27, 1958, the first Desi Sipah-e-Salar Ayub Khan deposed Mirza and took control. Khan ran the country with an iron fist, using the coercive state apparatus against those who opposed his misrule. On March 25, 1969, the dictator had to step down due to countrywide street protests mostly by student and labour unions. Going against his constitution, he handed over power to Agha Mohammad Yayha Khan, the Army Chief. Agha abrogated the 1962 constitution. ….
Finally, under pressure, Agha stepped down on December 20, 1971. Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto (ZAB), the popularly elected leader of what remained took the oath of office as President and Chief Martial Law Administrator (CMLA).
…..Eleven years of Zia (July 05, 1977, to August 17, 1988) followed by nine years of Musharraf (October 12, 1999, to August 18, 2008) carries the total siege years to thirty-three (33). A total lack of ownership prevails in all civilian institutions. There is a famous saying; “When exposing a crime is treated as committing a crime, you are being ruled by criminals.”
Unfortunately, the Islamic Republic of Pakistan has been ruled by the unscrupulous who otherwise had no chance to emerge on merit. Imran Khan has decided to fight till the end. It is a do-or-die situation, now or never. Pakistan and its people have to be liberated to grow and advance. Nation-building can no longer be delayed or denied. Free and fair elections are the way forward to be held as soon as possible .
https://www.nation.com.pk/29-Nov-2022/enemy-property
