Ruling Elites and Rational Democracy: An Analysis of Political System of Pakistan (1947-1993)

Abstract

This descriptive and analytical study aims to explore the ideology of ruling elites in Pakistan. Throughout the political and constitutional history of Pakistan, the governments, whether civilian or military, seem reluctant to politically mobilize the masses. The evolution of rational-democratic development in the country was tempered with undemocratic forces. Governing elite's lofty claims for the democratic and stable state are not fully materialized. This article highlights the reasons behind the reluctance of ruling elites to promote a rational democratic culture. The apparent reason is the lack of parliamentary culture in Pakistan. The representatives are elected by the people to present their demands in parliament. All policies, whether internal or external, should be originated within the parliament.Thus, the role of parliament is very important to introduce and promote the culture of rational, inclusive ideology. The governing elites,particularly the military regimes, introduced democratic reforms just to get political support for seemingly democratic legitimacy. The article investigates the causes of political instability and the patronage of political culture.