The third democratic phase in Pakistan’s short and tu-
multuous history completed its fourth year in 1992, but the euphoria of
December 1988 when a duly elected civilian government was inducted af-
ter a decade of harsh military rule has evaporated and disillusionment and
cynicism is evident in the nation. Most people feel that the ruling elites
have betrayed them by distorting the democratic process and ignoring the
basic issues and problems that beset the populace. They are fed up with
time-worn cliches and inane rhetoric dished out from religious and polit-
ical fora; they are waiting for change but are confused about its nature and
direction. So far, their commitment to democracy subsists but their faith
in the wisdom and sincerity of their representatives is shaken. Hope has
given way to apprehension.
Author(s): Rais Ahmad Khan
Source: Asian Survey , Feb., 1993, Vol. 33, No. 2, A Survey of Asia in 1992: Part II (Feb.,
1993), pp. 129-140
Published by: University of California Press
Stable URL: https://www.jstor.org/stable/2645321