P-ISSN: 2790-6795 Annals of Human and Social Sciences Jul-Sep 2023,Vol. 4, No.

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O-ISSN:2790-6809 http://doi.org/10.35484/ahss.2023(4-III)84 [920-927]

RESEARCH PAPER
Political Instability in Pakistan: Causes and Consequences
Dr. Muhammad Rashid
Associate Professor, Department Political Science Govt. Shalimar Graduate College, Lahore, Punjab,
Pakistan
Corresponding Author m.rashid.prof@gmail.com
ABSTRACT
Political instability has become a serious problem especially in developing and
underdeveloped countries. It is creating problem in the development of the countries. The
main purpose of this study is to find out the cause and consequences of political instability
in Pakistan. The research is conducting using qualitative approach focuses on the factors
that effect the political stability. Despite having plentiful resources pakistan is one of the few
nations in the world where political instability badly damaged economic growth. In
conclusion find out that political instability affect every sector of a country economic, social
and politics such as economic growth, law and order situation, education system create
political conflict foreign investors. Political stability is the only solution of all these problems.

Keywords: Causes, Consequences, Development, Political Instability, Problem

Introduction

As Political instability can be define in at least three ways. A first is to define as the
prosperity for regime or government change. A second is to focus on the incidence of
political upheaval or violence in a society, such as assassination and demonstration and so
a third approach focuses on instability in policies rather than instability in regimes for
example to which fundamental policies instance property rights are subject to frequent
change( encyclopaedia).

Political instability in one form or the other has been a recurring phenomena in the
history of mankind and its occurrence has conceded with the rise and fall of political
systems/regime.Political thinkers from the ancient periods onwards have rapidly
addressed themselves to the puzzling problem of political stability.it’s cause, characteristics,
consequences and curse. Changing notion about the state new form of governments new
conceptions about the relationship between the state and the individual growing concern
for individual rights and Civil liberties rising expectation for Freedom liberties and free
society all these and many other political experiments have been the outcome of this
continuing search for a perfect and a durable form of government. As this ideal of a perfect
one has not been found so far no government can be totally immune to .But this research
for the will -o- the wisp cannot be given up the nature and pattern of political instability
have changed significantly due to an unprecedented historical acceleration process of
modernization and development in technology and communication in the last 100 years.
Both old and new states have experienced massive disorder violent change and sometimes
even total breakdown of their political system for instance since World war 2.France Italy
Germany Spain or Portugal, Norway ,Denmark ,Sweden for example have witnessed massive
After World War. Two are struggling and often failing to establish and sustain stable national
governments. Political stability,, therefore stands out as a buffering question and a matter
of serious concern for those who are interested in the theoretical and systematic study of
this phenomenon by Bijinder Kumar (1989).

Pakistan has included in those states who suffered a lot due to the political
instability. Political instability undressed arises from disagreements among various
 Annals of Human and Social Sciences (AHSS) July-September, 2023 Volume 4, Issue 3

institutions a lack of pluralistic standards and resentment among various social situations
in every nation or Since its beginning pakistan has always been the center of political
instability (Mushtaq, et. al., 2017).Pakistan had a week disorganised political party that was
unable to settle significant governance disputes. In 1958 the civilian bureaucracy and
military took over as the ruling class as result of the political instability that had been
growing. Since its independence pakistan democratic system as alternated between civilian
and military administration at different point in its political history. This is primarily
because of political instability civil military conflicts ,political corruption and the military
establishments recurring attacks on weeks civilian governments which lead to the
imposition of martial law through the nation (occurring in 1958,1977 and 1999 led by chief
marshal administrated general Ayyub khan, zia ul haq and pervaiz Musharraf. Until did not
witness a single democratic handover of power from one democratically elected
administration to another after it had served it's term .Military have halted everyone of its
prior attempts to move to democracy both a democratic and military governments have
ruled Pakistan political upheaval and instability blocked the first ten years frequently
ending in the fall of democratically elected civilian governments which eventually sparked
the 1958 military coup from 1947. To the Both right wing conservative and left wing
socialist governments have held power in Pakistan at various points and neither extreme on
the political spectrum has been able to secure an outright majority up to seven different
Pakistani prime ministers were either dismissed always resign between 1947 and 1958 the
first military coup in pakistan was made possible by this political leader iskander mirza.
First civilian president and general Mohammad Ayyub and collaborated to suspend the
country’s constitution and impose martial law on October 7, 1958 .General yahya khan has
served as president from 1969 to 1971.

Zulfikar Ali Bhutto led a civilian autocracy that was socialist leaning from 1972 to
1977 until being overthrown by general zia-ul-haq after general zia was killed in a plane
accident in 1988, Benazir Bhutto, the daughter of zulfiqar ali Bhutto was chosen to lead
Pakistan as Prime Minister.she was the first a youngest woman to be elected as had of a
Muslim nation’s She was also the youngest woman to hold that position in history Nawaz
Sharif government came after hersand two president alternatively until general Pervez
musharaf military takeover in 1999 .Musharaff served as pakistan’s president from
president Rafiq Tara’s departure in 2001 to his one this resignation in 2008. Asif ali zardari
was elected as president in election 2008.In 2013 Nawaz shareef was elected as prime
minister of pakistan.Imran khan was the first prime minister of pakistan who was ousted by
a no confidence vote and the current prime minister Shahbaz shareef appointed in
2022.Pakistan had a long history of authoritative military government. And had faced
political instability in at least last three decades.

Literature Review

Political instability effects the economic growth and this reduction and slow down
of economic activities that threaten the local and foreign investors to put their investment
in such a risky enviroment.This fall in investment reduces the productivity savings and also
consumption level because of fall in earning capacity and purchasing of masses. The political
instability causes inflation and unemployment to unrest lead strikes violence against
government. Consequently indicators hesitate to put huge investment at stake and
risk.(Dawood Mamoon and Rabia Zamin ABBAS,2016).

Kul kapri (1969) examines the causes of political instability in the underdeveloped
countries and the character of the leadership in the third world that is attempting to deal
with the problems.

Jahangir irshad,(2022) Examines that the countries facing low economic growth are
the victim of irregular flow of government exchange due to political unrest.it is evident that
economic development was severely affected in those countries where government involve
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a critical change in ideology which negativity effects the implementation of policies and
weakness institutional infrastructure.

Rakhsane, (2021)idscussed that a firm political system strengthens efficient policy

mechanism, effectiveness and regular institutional effectiveness and regular political
exchange of governments through elections or whatever the way of power of exchange a
country possesses.

(Beenish shuhail, Qingweihi,2021)examines the key goals relations between

political instability and economic development.How does political instability affect GDP and
growth in the country.Their results shows that debt and index growth are closely correlated
while unemployment and inflation are negatively correlated.political uncertainty limits
economic growth and this decline and stagnation of economic development scare domestic
and international investors to bring investment in such frightful atmosphere political
instability plays a significant role in maintaining the integration of democracy and
establishing state authority.

S.M.TAHA, (2012) discuss a discursive historical analysis of political instability in

pakistan. How it worsened the economic growth. Focuses on the interply of political
decision and national growth in pakistan.

Khadiga elbragathi gazi alssaf,(2016)study investigates the impact of political

instability on the economic growth in Egypt, Jordan ,Lebanon ,Tunisia for the period of
1996-2016.The empirical results of the study using the vector error correction model
highlight the impact of different political instability indicators on economic
growth.Moreover these results indicate that there is a strong relationship between the
several political indicators upon the economic growth.

To summarize and after all the above most of the findings from the primary and
secondary research data indicate that the economic progress and future growth is
dependent upon the political stability of a nation .various findings show that many external
and eternal factors create the political instability.

In conclusion, unfortunately there are many other factors that affects the political
stability but have not discussed in detail in the above studies. Therefore the value added of
this study is to bridge between what it has been found missing in the literature.

Results And Discussions

Failure of political leadership

The democracy is becoming more complex due to the bad performance of elected
officials provisional and federal assemblies. Most of political leadership comes from a feudal
society’s past. This is typical south Asian politics, where the reverence for feudal leader is
greatest.The elected officials have taken on the role of dictators. The military believed that
political leaders lacked the capacity to control the nation. Pakistani politics have struggled
to forge a solid political model agreement. Whatever agreement the power sharing reach,
they quickly withdraw from politics due to their own political objectives and interests.Early
in the 1980s, the emergence of sectarian movements and Islamic extremism and militancy
silenced the open exchange of opinions, ideas, and information on crucial national
concerns.It caused intolerance to spread and raised the degree of violence inside their
institutions and made use of hate speech.consequently, culture and social values plurality
diversification and religious peace were the principal outcomes of these initiatives.Because
these organizations were becoming more powerful within the social and political structures
the progress of democratisation was severely hampered.such circumstances do not support
the development of democratic norms an ideas or the rule of law.
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Lack of Education

Due to lack of education a poor literacy rate and a lack of political information
regarding their surrounds our country is also dealing with this issue, and the majority of the
populace is not even aware of the fundamentals of politics. because of most people lack
political knowledge and do not even understand how to cause their votes a lack of political
education has a detrimental effect on the nations economy. Most individuals are uninformed
of this strength and significance of their vote and as a result they frequently waste their vote
by failing to cost it peoples inadequate ability to think critically about politics result from
their lack of information Which makes it difficult for them to comprehend the goals plans
agendas and strategies of the politicians. As a result they frequently elect the wrong or
unsuitable candidate to lead the nation. The majority of pakistan's regions particularly its
ruler areas continue to use the jagirdari system where people lack political awareness and
are poorly educated jagirdar does force voters to cast ballots in accordance with their
preferences by taking advantage of the populous inadequate knowledge. They operate in
accordance with their jagirdars wishes because of their inadequate knowledge. Mostly
politicians are unaware about the politics because of lack of education that's why they have
concern only their own interest not nations interest.

Pakistan’s economic and political stability have suffered as a result of the nations
widespread corruption problem .Corruption is a significant road block to pakistan’s
progress. Since it in involves the abuse of public office for personal Corruption in the public
sector is one of the most prevalent types of corruption in Pakistan. Government employees
frequently seek bribes from civilians in order to grant them access to services such as
issuing licences or permits to which they are legally entitled.In addition to undermining the
rule of law this also deter investment and stunts economic The corruption in the business
sector is another significant issue in Pakistan.Businesses frequently bribe government
representatives to obtain contracts or other favours, which can result in the ineffective and
wasteful use of public funds. Along with hurting the economy this also erodes public
confidence in public and private There are many factors that contribute in the corruption is
on of the the poverty.Poverty that is pervasive in pakistan is another aspect. As means of
surviving in a challenging economic environment many people are willing to engage in
unscrupulous activities in order to make ends meet.

Clash Between Civilian and Military

Tension between the military and civilian government have been a major source of
political stability in Pakistan.The military has frequently been changed with meddling in
politics after multiple instances of military intervention that resulted in military rule.

Ethnic and religious Multi ethnic society with people from many culture background
faces a more serious challenge with political instability. All societal segments received their
fair share under a politically stable state and are content with being a part of a diverse
society which in the end leads towards the nation building.

Political Instability and underdeveloped Countries

These countries are those who independent on the developed states although they
appeared autonomists they are actually heavily dependent on their previous colonial
overlords are in depth and are unable to repay the loans they have taken out International
Monetary organisation paying back is the hardest because the cost of repaying and the
worth of the dollars fluctuate frequently as we are all aware the weight also We all
understand that without money there can be no economic expansion no expenditure on
health, education etc. No investments and employment possibilities result from this political
leader increase their borrowing to meet their requirement and the cycle repeats. The
majority of the people in this nation is sizeable illiterate and clueless about how to get out
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the leaders exploit them and use a variety of tactics to control them with the aid of their.
Foreign masters they have become corrupt and wish to maintain their position of power
serve their function when a king disobey. Foreign powers frequently utilised populate to stir
up unrest in an effort to remove him from power. It has been observed that the new leader
follows the same principles for which the previous one was dismissed. The current state of
affair has persisted for more than 70 years. These are the things that people desire to
eliminated. This is the reason why political unrest prevails in the reason why political unrest
prevails in the majority of developing nations.

Political Instability and Economic Growth

Economic activity will always be disrupted by political instability. Governments

regularly fluctuate are insecure and can be short lived under clashing situations( example
of pakistan) imports foreign investment international trade are all impacted and for years
cannot be Add these times even loans come with greater restrictions example of Pakistan
during Afghan war battle against terrorism pakistan’s economy continues to be damaged
the international community lacks confidence if one country is unstable to meet demands
other nations step in all of these terms economic growth.

Impact of Political Instability on Foreign Policy

Foreign policy is all about develop relations with the other nation on the basis of
national interest. A sluggish economy makes it more challenging to achieve the objectives
when your economy is struggling you are in a weaker position to negotiate. if it go for loans
etc you are under pressure to accept harsher terms ( like now in IMF) politics is all about
gaining power in reality power is the economy.

Political Instability and Law and Order Situation

No we live in a global village where global media has raised awareness of peoples
rights whether they have they may be a political or social media highlights various forms of
abuse from around the world and a government are under increasing strain. As a result the
state of law and order also hurts the economy but it’s is a component of all the previously
identified reasons.

Political Instability and Socio Political Issues

Social political concerns are challenges that arise in society as a result of political
unrest. Such as issues with community issues affecting low income groups and lack of
representation in government minorities rights government breaches of human rights and
campaign against violence among other things these problems are all significant
contribution to instability in developed countries.

Impact of Political Instability on the Nations Development

All of these reasons contribute to the slow progress of nation in all areas. Every issue
is connected and they are all have an effect on one another. if there is no money how a nation
can gain good education. if there is no money funding how a nation be excellent in health. if
there is no defence how can we build a solid defence. The political leaderships faces
increasing difficulties as a result of all of these issues and political stability results from their
failure.

Impact of Political Instability on Education

These countries are all developed and only a small percentage invested enough in
education. It appears that it was ignored by purpose to keep the populace ignorant. we all

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are aware that education is the key to growth. it is essential for growth political awareness
and right consciousness

Conclusion

Economic social and political spheres all have to deal with the effects of political
stability. Pakistan is a country with plentiful natural resources arable land, smart people and
crucial vital location and having nuclear weapons make for a case of serious political
instability that is plagued by weak an ineffective external an internal policy making
discontinuation of policies , a less cohesive society and an obscure image on the
international stage that has the world questioning its future.

People become more loyal to the state as a result and a sense of nationalism develops
among the populace. This is because a politically stable state satisfy every segment of society
in all dynamics an accommodates pluralists. Despite their differences they and the citizens
feel that they belong to the same country. In this sense the example of developed states can
be used.

As compared to Pakistan society industrialise countries are more pluralistic

coherent and committed to achieve shared national objectives Strong leadership that has
moulded society's counters is the primary cause. In these states, leadership is based more
on ideology than on communities sects or ethnic groups. In accordance with beliefs society
also forms opinions about which candidate they think should lead the country. Because
there are more educated people in developed cultures are more politically informed and
have strong opinions on issues that are significant to their country. The contribution of an
academic community to the politics today differ significantly from that of the undeveloped
and uneducated. Those who have received an education are more motivated to work for the
improvement of their country and community another important point is that, in addition
to providing their inhabitants within education developed states do so while
underdeveloped societies are unable to do so because of the real leadership.

When many facets of society are dissatisfied with government acts and there is a
climate of mistrust political instability has the potentially bad impact of dividing society
along multiple lines dominates across society. The purist of individual trust and disregard
for a national or community interest are the results of society's unhappiness and mistrust.
The vacuum that unstable situation generate clearly benefits the negative forces both
internal and foreign.

Any states political stability provides the ideal opportunity for outside interference
and anti-state elements and pressure groups to advance their own self-serving agendas for
Pakistan society and state the current political unrest has increased both domestic and
extended threats. Pakistan is dealing with significant difficulties particularly in the political
and economic spheres. The entire world is giving Pakistan aid and assistance but in the face
of dishonest leadership and unstable political conditions the massive amounts of foreign aid
are not producing any beneficial

The future of the Pakistani people is in in danger due to the ongoing coupes and the
undermining of democratic regimes. Pakistan has already experienced significant losses as
a result of the division of its east wing owing of the ongoing clashes between the units and
the governmental Every federating unit is feeling the effects of political instability but
Baluchistan and khaber pakhtoonkhwah are particularly hard hit. The volatility are already
creates difficulties for policy making integrating into global politics and economy and
getting support from other countries in the nation security societal cohesion and economic
spheres. Mishandling the war on terrorism issue is the biggest and most pressing threat
pakistan’s political instability is posing.

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A stable political structure is currently an urgently required because Pakistan must

fight internal terrorism and must persuade its own people that this battle is vital .Pakistan
is doing wisely to deal with the crisis in order to appease its allies neighbours and to control
pressure. The lack of trust between Pakistanis is the major issue in this situation and the
allies and neighbours continue to take advantage of it.pakistan additionally half of the world
has been affected negatively by the Cold War. After the events of Sept 11 2001 Pakistani
society and economy have still not fully recovered from the detrimental consequences of
Cold War and War on Terror presents another challenge to international The manner in
which the government’s responds to the crucial issues connected to and resulting from the
war on terrorism such as the economy and society will have a significant impact on
pakistan's The worst law and order scenario has a negative immediate impact on pakistan's
already aid dependent economy. Foreign investors disinterest in making foreign direct
investments and pakistan’s lack of response access to the profitable markets is causing the
economies to stagnate and make it more likely that it will need foreign The misuse of help
after major catastrophes like the 2005 earthquake and the 2010 floods aftermath has
damaged donors willingness to provide Pakistan with adequate sport specially during its
most trying times because of the instability of the system and the public servants
consequent lack of accountability to the general population corruption has become a
widespread . Foreign nations raised the issues of improper handling and made it clear that
they preferred non profit organisation to carry out the duty rather than providing the
government workers with direct assistance. The people of Pakistan who were the true
victims of all these including a weak economy natural calamities and political instability face
a complex predicament as a result of the foreign communities mistrusts of pakistan’s
governmental systems. The stability of the political system of the state and the solution to
any potential illnesses resulting from the systems malfunction are absolutely necessary for
the prosperity and health of society and the economy.

Recommendation

In case of Pakistan the solution of all these problems is

 Ensuring smooth relationship between civil and military

 Implementation of Pakistan empowering policies as a primary measures can help

law and order situation in Pakistan

 All institutions shall be led to work independently without any interference or

blackmailing

 Making a democratic political parties

 Promote research institutions in Pakistan

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