Between 2022 and 2024, Pakistan’s political landscape was dominated by dramatic events and shifting power balances. Following Imran Khan’s resignation as Prime Minister in April 2022 due to a vote of no confidence, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party faced tremendous hurdles and internal divides. Despite his ouster, Khan maintained widespread support and a loyal following, as seen by enormous protests and calls for early elections of 2024. However, in October 2022, the Electoral Commission of Pakistan barred Khan from running for office for five years owing to suspected breaches. Khan’s political fortunes were further challenged when he was injured in a shooting incident in November 2022, which he blamed on political opponents and military personnel.

Furthermore, the run-up to February 2024 parliamentary elections saw increased tensions and controversy. Khan dissolved PTI-controlled provincial assemblies in January 2023, with the goal of forcing provincial elections and building political momentum. However, the ruling Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM) coalition opposed the plan, resulting in a constitutional and legal deadlock. Furthermore, Khan’s conviction on corruption charges in May 2023 provoked nationwide riots, culminating in confrontations with law enforcement and military involvement to restore order. These occurrences have generated worries about the fairness and stability of Pakistan’s political system, which is now experiencing instability and upheaval.

Contextualizing Khan’s Leadership: Legal and Constitutional Perspectives

Imran Khan’s rise to power in 2018 signaled a substantial shift in Pakistan’s political landscape. Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party, which promised to eradicate corruption, implement economic reforms, and enhance Pakistan’s worldwide position, had overwhelming support. However, his term has been hampered by a slew of crises, ranging from economic insecurity to governance concerns.

“One of the penalties for refusing to participate in politics is that you end up being governed by your inferiors.” – Plato

One of the main points of disagreement has been the opposition’s claims of electoral manipulation, notably in the 2018 national elections. The opposition, led by groups such as the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), has frequently questioned the legitimacy of Khan’s government, asking for elections reforms and new elections.

Furthermore, these charges of electoral fraud have sparked legal fights and constitutional challenges, casting doubt on the integrity of Pakistan’s election process and the accountability of its institutions. The judiciary’s role in resolving such conflicts and upholding the rule of law has become critical to sustaining public trust and confidence in the democratic process.

The legal and constitutional ramifications of Imran Khan’s activities are fundamental to the dispute about his leadership. From the contentious dissolution of the National Assembly to the implementation of emergency laws, Khan’s administration has been accused of eroding democratic principles and institutional integrity.

“Where law ends, tyranny begins.” – William Pitt

The constitutional powers reside in the office of The Prime Minister and their responsibilities in the framework of parliamentary democracy have come under serious examination. Khan’s use of executive authority, particularly the issue of presidential decrees, has raised arguments over the separation of powers and the appropriate operation of democratic institutions.

Furthermore, the judiciary’s role in interpreting the constitution and protecting basic rights has come under attack. High-profile cases, including claims of corruption against opposition leaders, have called into doubt the judiciary’s impartiality and independence.

Imran Khan and Other Political Parties

Imran Khan’s leadership has been under criticism as his administration deals with economic issues, popular unrest, and opposition activities. Calls for Khan’s resignation have increased, with opposition parties organizing major mass protests and rallies around the nation.

Simultaneously, internal schisms have formed within Khan’s own party, the PTI, undermining his leadership. Dissent among party members over policy decisions and governance difficulties has sparked talk about possible leadership challenges within the PTI.

While the PTI has been at the forefront of Pakistan’s political scene, other parties, including the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), have also played important roles. Each party has its own philosophy, support base, and approach to government, creating a diversified political environment in Pakistan.

The PML-N, led by former Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif, has a center-right ideology, and has historically had support from the business community and conservative parts of society. Despite confronting legal Despite setbacks and charges of corruption, the PML-N remains a powerful force in Pakistani politics, notably in the vast region of Punjab.

On the other side, the PPP, led by the Bhutto family, has a significant presence in rural Sindh and portions of Punjab. The party promotes a center-left platform, including social assistance programs and the empowerment of marginalized populations. Despite internal issues and criticism over administration, the PPP maintains a foothold in certain areas of Pakistan.

In addition to major political parties, Pakistan’s political scene is affected by regional and religious organizations. Parties that promote regional interests include the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) in Karachi and the Awami National Party (ANP) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa.

Similarly, religious groups like the Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (JUI) and the Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) influence Pakistan’s political discourse, notably on themes of Islam and governance. While these parties may not have major electoral influence nationwide, they frequently act as vital allies or opposing voices in national politics.

Civil Society and Media: Essential Democratic Pillars

To acquire a better understanding of Pakistan’s political environment, it is useful to compare it with Western countries. While each country’s political system and difficulties are distinct, there are certain similarities in terms of governance, accountability, and the rule of law.

For example, the principle of the separation of powers, which is embedded in many Western democracies, helps is a key component of democratic government. The system’s checks and balances prevent power from being concentrated in a single arm of government, promoting accountability and openness. Similarly, the value of an independent court cannot be emphasized.

In addition to political parties, civil society organizations and the media play important roles in defining Pakistan’s political environment. Civil society groups, such as human rights organizations, advocacy groups, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs), frequently operate as watchdogs, monitoring government acts and pushing for social fairness and accountability.

Similarly, the media provides an important forum for public debate and political action. Despite problems like as censorship and intimidation, Pakistan’s thriving media ecosystem allows for a variety of perspectives and viewpoints. Journalists and media outlets play an important role in holding politicians and government officials responsible, exposing corruption, and keeping the public informed about political events.

Legal Frameworks in Democratic Governance: Navigating Challenges and Responsibilities

In addition to the intricacies of political leadership and cultural factors, the importance of legislation in molding Pakistan’s future cannot be overstated. Upholding the rule of law and guaranteeing its fair enforcement are critical cornerstones in building a stable and progressive nation. However, Pakistan has had issues with legal openness, accountability, and judicial independence. Corruption, political intervention, and selective enforcement of laws have weakened public faith in the judicial system, jeopardizing its ability to promote justice and protect citizens’ rights.

Furthermore, Pakistan’s legal system must change to meet the changing demands and ambitions of its varied people. Reforms that enhance legal institutions, improve access to justice, and promote the rule of law is necessary for Creating a favorable climate for social, economic, and political growth. By prioritizing justice, equality, and due process, Pakistan can pave the road for a more equitable and prosperous future for all its residents.

While Pakistan has made tremendous progress towards democracy since its independence in 1947, The country continues to encounter significant difficulties to democratic government. Weak institutional frameworks, endemic corruption, and a history of military interference in politics have all harmed democratic consolidation and stability.

Furthermore, Pakistan’s socioeconomic inequalities, ethnic conflicts, and religious extremism pose serious challenges to democratic government. Marginalised populations, such as ethnic and religious minorities, are frequently discriminated against and excluded from political participation, aggravating social tensions, and eroding national unity.

Economic Ramifications and Global Consequences of Political Unrest

Political instability and governance issues have far-reaching economic consequences for Pakistan. Uncertainty and instability in the political environment can discourage foreign investment, stifle economic progress, and worsen poverty and unemployment. Furthermore, corruption and inefficiency in government institutions can erode public trust and confidence in the economy, resulting in capital flight and economic slowdown.

Addressing the core causes of political volatility and implementing effective governance changes are critical to Pakistan’s economic progress and prosperity. Building a robust and sustainable economy requires strengthening institutions, increasing openness and accountability, and creating an enabling climate for investment and entrepreneurship.

Pakistan’s political turbulence has far-reaching international repercussions, notably in terms of regional stability and global security. Pakistan’s strategic location, nuclear weapons, and participation in the war on terror position it as a major actor in South Asia and the Middle East.

Stability and democratic governance in Pakistan are critical to regional peace and stability, as well as combating terrorism and extremism. Furthermore, Pakistan’s connections with neighboring nations, such as India, Afghanistan, China is impacted by its own political dynamics and governance issues.

Towards a Stable and Inclusive Democracy

In conclusion, Pakistan’s political upheaval and leadership issues highlight the complexity of democratic administration in a diverse and fast changing country. While the path to stable and inclusive democracy is laden with challenges, Pakistan must respect the ideals of democracy, rule of law, and institutional integrity.

Addressing the country’s legal, constitutional, and socioeconomic difficulties would need a coordinated effort by government leaders, civil society organizations, the media, and the international community. Pakistan can transcend its political divides and set a road for a stable, wealthy, and inclusive democracy by encouraging conversation, reconciliation, and consensus-building. the triumph of Pakistan’s democracy the success of the experiment will be determined by its capacity to address the underlying causes of political turbulence, build democratic institutions, and develop a culture of tolerance, pluralism, and respect for human rights. As Pakistan navigates these problems, it has the potential to serve as a model for democratic government and regional stability in South Asia and beyond.

Finally, the backdrop of Imran Khan’s tenure as Prime Minister from 2022 to 2024 reflects a period of intense political turbulence and complex power struggles within Pakistan. The events surrounding Khan’s removal from office, his disqualification from elections, and the subsequent legal battles have underscored the fragility of democratic institutions and the challenges of governance in the country. Despite facing setbacks and controversies, Khan’s enduring popularity among certain segments of the population highlights the deep-rooted divisions and polarization within Pakistani society. Amidst these challenges, it is imperative for Pakistani leaders and institutions to prioritize dialogue, reconciliation, and democratic principles to steer the nation towards a path of unity, prosperity, and inclusive governance.

“Progress can only be achieved through unity, discipline, and hard work.” – Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah

Qurrat Ul Ain Rehman is an LLM student at Brunel University Law School (GB). She is originally from Pakistan.