Democracy would mean that the illiterate masses will elect Islamic fundamentalists to office. Nawaz Sharif did a lot of damage to liberal society in Pakistan which was recovering during the biref rule of Benazir Bhutto which followed Zia's dictatorship. I think people have tasted more freedom during Musharraf's so called dictatorial regime than during the rule of self-styled democrats. In fact Musharraf used his powers to ensure free media matured as well as was patronizing art and culture. Unfortunately - Musharraf seems to have become soft, running out of tricks and now the fundamentalist forces are slowly gaining ground. The Chief Justice he sacked was a corrupt man who promoted his son but he became a rallying ground for opposition forces. Its sort of strange - but the most secular and educated muslim countries have been ruled by secular dictators who kept mullahs out of sight - and these include Algeria , Iraq under Saddam , Turkey , Malaysia and Indonesia under Suharto. Musharraf can do well now to liberalise Pakistani civil society while keeping so called democratic forces under check.
RE:Democracy is a foolish idea in Pakistan
by abdul khader jeelani on Mar 22, 2007 06:37 PM Permalink
I support Mr.Anurags view because for pakistan leaders like Musharraf needed and not elected fundamental eliments.again elected representatives will be currupt like india,according to me people should able to have better standard of life regardless of whomever may be in power
