SUBMITTED BY: MUNEER AHMED

ROLL NO: BL-1709

"CLASS: BA-LLB-VII | SEC "C
COURSE: CONT. DEVELOPMENT
SUBMITTED TO: SIR KHADIM HUSSAIN

ASSIGNMENT TOPIC
Bhutto's Political Era ( his Trial, Execution And Democracy)

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ZULFIQAR ALI BHUTTO'S POLITICAL ERA IN PAKISTAN:

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's political era in Pakistan,

spanning from the late 1960s to the late 1970s, was marked by significant
political developments, both in terms of achievements and controversies. Bhutto,
born in 1928 into a prominent political family, quickly rose through the ranks of
Pakistani politics, eventually becoming a pivotal figure in shaping the country's
destiny.

Bhutto's early political career saw him serving in various capacities within the
government, including as the Foreign Minister under President Ayub Khan.
However, he eventually broke away from Ayub's regime, disillusioned with
what he perceived as a lack of commitment to social justice and the rights of the
common people. This discontent led to the formation of the Pakistan People's
Party (PPP) in 1967, a political entity that would become synonymous with
Bhutto's vision for a more egalitarian Pakistan.

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The 1970 general elections were a turning point in Bhutto's political career. The
PPP won a landslide victory in West Pakistan, securing a majority in the
National Assembly. This victory positioned Bhutto to play a crucial role in the
formation of the new government. In a significant move, he was appointed as
both the President and the Chief Martial Law Administrator of Pakistan,
consolidating power and initiating a series of socio-economic reforms.

ACHIVEMENT IN POLITICS:

One of Bhutto's most notable achievements

during this period was the promulgation of the 1973 Constitution. This document
aimed to provide a framework for a democratic and federal Pakistan, with
provisions for the protection of fundamental rights and the autonomy of
provinces. The adoption of the constitution was a landmark moment in the
country's history, establishing the foundations for democratic governance.

However, Bhutto's political fortunes took a downturn following the 1977 general
elections. Allegations of electoral fraud and a controversial political environment
led to widespread protests and calls for Bhutto's resignation. The opposition,
spearheaded by the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA), accused Bhutto of
manipulating the electoral process to secure victory. The ensuing political unrest
paved the way for the military intervention of General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq.

GENERAL ZIA'S COUP IN 1977:

Zia's coup in 1977 marked the end of Bhutto's time in

power and the beginning of a tumultuous period in Pakistani politics. Bhutto was
arrested, and a highly contentious trial ensued, centering on charges of
conspiracy to commit murder. Critics argued that the trial lacked due process
and was politically motivated, aiming to eliminate Bhutto as a political force.
Despite international appeals for clemency, Bhutto was sentenced to death and
executed in April 1979.

The execution of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto had profound implications for

Pakistan. It created a deep political divide, with Bhutto's supporters viewing him
as a martyr and the symbol of resistance against military authoritarianism. The
PPP, despite the loss of its charismatic leader, persisted in advocating for
democracy and the restoration of civilian rule.

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Bhutto's political legacy endured through his daughter, Benazir Bhutto, who took
the reins of the PPP after her father's death. The party continued to play a
prominent role in Pakistani politics, advocating for democratic principles and
social justice. Benazir Bhutto herself became the first woman to lead a Muslim-
majority country when she became Prime Minister in 1988.

In conclusion, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's political era in Pakistan was marked by a

combination of visionary leadership, significant achievements, and controversies
that ultimately led to his downfall. The enduring impact of his legacy on
Pakistani politics is reflected in the ongoing struggle for democracy and the role
of the PPP as a key political player in the country.

DOWNFALL OF BHUTTO ERA:

Bhutto's political journey took a dark turn in 1977 when

allegations of electoral fraud marred the general elections held that year.
Accusations of vote rigging and manipulation led to widespread protests and
calls for Bhutto's resignation. The political turmoil culminated in a military coup
led by General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq, who subsequently imposed martial law
and took control of the government.

TRAIL OF BHUTTO:

Bhutto's arrest and trial followed soon after. The trial was
highly controversial, with critics arguing that it was politically motivated and
lacked due process. Bhutto was accused of authorizing the murder of Nawab
Mohammad Ahmad Khan, a political opponent. Despite maintaining his
innocence, Bhutto was found guilty and sentenced to death. The trial and
subsequent execution in April 1979 marked a watershed moment in Pakistani
politics, shaping the course of the country's history for years to come.

THE EXECUTION OF ZULFIQAR ALI BHUTTO

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 The execution of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto had profound
implications for Pakistan's political landscape. It created a deep political rift and
intensified the polarization between Bhutto's supporters and those who aligned
with the military regime. The PPP, now led by Bhutto's daughter Benazir Bhutto,
became a symbol of resistance against the authoritarian rule of General Zia-ul-
Haq.

The era following Bhutto's execution was marked by a struggle for the
restoration of democracy. The PPP, despite facing challenges and periods of
exile, remained a potent force advocating for democratic values. Benazir Bhutto,
with her charismatic leadership, played a pivotal role in keeping her father's
political legacy alive.

The death of General Zia-ul-Haq in a plane crash in 1988 provided an

opportunity for a return to democratic governance. The subsequent elections saw
the PPP coming back to power, with Benazir Bhutto becoming the first woman
to lead a Muslim-majority country. The restoration of democratic rule was a
testament to the enduring appeal of Bhutto's political ideals.

However, the challenges of governance proved formidable. Benazir Bhutto's

terms in office were marked by economic difficulties, allegations of corruption,
and political instability. The alternating periods of civilian and military rule in
the following decades underscored the fragility of democracy in Pakistan.

DEMOCRATIC GOVERNMENT:

Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's political era, encompassing his

rise to power, trial, and execution, left an indelible imprint on Pakistan's political
consciousness. His vision for a democratic and egalitarian society endured
through the turbulent years that followed his demise. The PPP continued to be a
significant player in Pakistani politics, with the Bhutto family remaining central
to its leadership.

In conclusion, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto's political era was a complex and

tumultuous chapter in Pakistan's history. His contributions to the development of
the country's democratic framework were significant, but his political downfall
and execution cast a long shadow over the nation. The subsequent struggle for
the restoration of democracy and the ongoing challenges in maintaining
democratic governance reflect the enduring impact of Bhutto's political legacy.

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THE END

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