The Hindu : Opinion / Letters to the Editor : Pakistan & democracy

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Thursday, Mar 13, 2008
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Pakistan & democracy

Tuesday’s suicide attacks in Lahore are aimed at upsetting the process of rebuilding democracy in Pakistan. The blasts, which came a day after the Murree Declaration was issued by the PPP and the PML(N), are a clear indication of the fact that the path ahead for Asif Ali Zardari and Nawaz Sharif is not smooth.

K. Fasil,
Aligarh

The decision of the PPP and the PML(N) to form a coalition government at the Centre and in the Punjab province is indeed a “Historic breakthrough” (editorial, March 11). The Murree Declaration is welcome news for those who want to see democracy established in Pakistan. Mr. Sharif and Mr. Zardari deserve all praise for arriving at an understanding. It is a fitting tribute to Benazir Bhutto who sacrificed her life for democracy.

C.A.C. Murugappan,
Kothamangalam

With the two major political parties coming together, there is tremendous jubilation over the restoration of democracy in Pakistan. Equally heartening is Mr. Zardari’s indication that he is willing to put Kashmir on the backburner. But one should not be carried away by the developments. The Pakistan army is strong and huge, with its focus on India. And this is what has prevented the emergence of democracy in that country.

M. Bhimashankar,
Hyderabad

The Murree Declaration is momentous for, among other things, it displays a political sagacity not known in 60 years of Pakistan’s existence. What remains to be seen is whether the far-reaching agreement will be taken to its logical conclusion. We have seen such euphoria turn into disappointment in the past with the masses welcoming a military rule after a few years of wayward and corrupt civilian governance. One hopes that Pakistani politicians will rebuild the institutions that have been systematically eroded over six decades.

Subramanyam Sridharan,
Chennai

Rarely does history give people an opportunity to change the course of a nation. The Murree Declaration is good in intent. But given the age-old habit of politicians, it would be interesting to see whether it will be implemented in true spirit. One reason why democracy could not take root in Pakistan is the failure of its political leadership over the years. One hopes history will not repeat itself.

Nirbhay Kumar Sharma,
New Delhi

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