Minus-one formula: a democracy dilemma
The writer is a researcher on parliamentary and electoral affairs. He tweets @dnananjum
The recent statement by the Caretaker Prime Minister, suggesting elections without Imran Khan, is problematic and does not augur well with democratic norms and values. The country is already grappling with its worst-ever economic crisis, accompanied by a severely compromised state of governance, resulting in soaring inflation and widespread public dissatisfaction. Such statements not only raise concerns about the neutrality and impartiality of the caretaker setup, whose only responsibility is to support the Election Commission of Pakistan in conducting free, fair and transparent polls, but also reinforce existing perceptions about a level-playing field. This state of affairs appears to echo the same power-sharing dynamics and formula witnessed prior to the General Elections 2018, with one political party ostensibly pushed to the corners.
Elections are the bedrock of any democratic system. However, for elections to fulfil their crucial role, they must be characterised as free and fair universally. Simply conducting an election is insufficient; if citizens are coerced into abstaining from voting or are prevented from participating as candidates, the election cannot be deemed according to the constitutional and legal requirements. The establishment and strengthening of democratic processes as well as institutions hinge upon these fundamental principles, which should be equally upheld by all stakeholders. Every adult citizen should enjoy the right to vote in elections without discrimination. Similarly, every individual should have an equal opportunity to stand as a candidate. These principles are essential for elections to be genuinely labeled as free and fair, which are an indispensable prerequisite for achieving stability and fostering development.
Since 2018, Pakistan has entered a phase marked by a hybrid regime that has progressively disrupted the balance of power between civilian and military authorities. This deliberate shift in the system has eroded the core principles of democracy, characterised by politically-charged campaigns against popular political leaders, resulting in their arrests and legal battles. This has been accompanied by a shrinking civic space and freedoms, increasing media controls and censorship, and a disregard for the role of the parliament. In these years, the role of the parliament has increasingly declined, and according to some standards, it has remained a mere rubber stamp or a debating club without substantially representing the electorate. Such developments have proven detrimental for Pakistan leading to a regression in institutional growth and exacerbation of societal polarisation and fragmentation.
If we continue to witness the marginalisation of a particular political party, with its leaders subjected to legal cases and imprisonment, the outcome of the election will likely remain contentious. The apparent deadlock and political instability may persist even after the elections. We have observed this pattern in the past, and regrettably, it appears we may have to endure it again — a repeated mistake that Pakistan cannot afford, especially at this critical juncture when the country is already dealing with enormous economic challenges and urgently seeking a bailout for some respite. Moreover, the current posturing of the caretaker government requires course correction, as it appears to be pursuing a minus-one formula, raising concerns about an unprejudiced contest.
Although the Election Commission has cleared some uncertainty by proposing a January-end date for the elections, there are significant steps that must be taken to ensure the elections are conducted honestly, fairly and in compliance with the law, while safeguarding against corrupt practices. These measures are essential to ensure a level-playing field for all. This responsibility does not solely rest with the Election Commission. All state actors must prioritise the restoration of democratic sanity, as it has proven to be the most effective path for Pakistan’s progress. It is high time for the State to reassess its strategy; otherwise, it risks perpetuating a state of crisis that will be increasingly challenging to manage in future.
Published in The Express Tribune, October 2nd, 2023.
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