Transformational Leadership and Mohtarma Benazir Bhutto

Abstract

Theories of leadership, over decades have explored a wide variety of concepts. Much research has been undertaken keeping in mind the western society both relating to organizations as well as political and other leaders. There is a dearth of a systematic leadership study in regards to either organizations or political leadership in third world countries, especially in Pakistan. Journalistic appraisals are commonly done but theoretical analysis is sorely missing. Also, not much work has been done to explore the concept of transformational leadership among politicians both here and abroad. This paper aims to bridge he prevailing gap. When reading about Bhutto's life, the easiest course of action would have been to view her from the perspective of traits or simply charisma. The paper explores the contemporary concept of transformational leadership in the context of Benazir Bhutto. Her assassination formed the motivational factor to conduct such a research, particularly on a personality known nationally and internationally as a leader. In addition, quantitative small scale researches are usually conducted from time to time, but very little attention is given to qualitative/descriptive/documentary research. Such forms of methodological pluralism are not part of the research strategy approved by many. However, to understand and view Bhutto from the point of view of contemporary thought in leadership makes the task much more interesting.