Third time Prime Minister: Nawaz Sharif

Anil Narendra 

In fact, transition of power through democratic means, is a major achievement in the history of Pakistan. Winning the elections and coming to power in a country, where Army has always been dominating, is not only a victory for  Mian Nawaz Sharif, but also for the democracy and the people of Pakistan. Nawaz has become Prime Minister of Pakistan for the third time and this in itself is a record. Earlier, he was sworn in twice, but both the times, his democratically elected government was brought down. The role of Pakistan Peoples Party’s former President, Asif Ali Zardari must not be forgotten in creating the present democratic environment in the country. Amidst all the contradictions and political intrigues, he consolidated the roots of democracy by successful running his democratic government for full term of five years and also weakened the grip of Army in the power corridor in Pakistan. Meanwhile, Pakistan Army and the Courts working under its influence tried to put various obstacles in the path of PPP Government. Two of its Prime Ministers were made to quit on the dictates of the judiciary, but the Government managed to continue. It is a great achievement for the Pakistani people and the opportunity emerged out of this must be put to good use by Nawaz Sharif to strengthen the roots of democracy in the country and he has enough majority to achieve this end. The best thing is that there appears to be absence of suicidal bitterness between the ruling and opposition set-ups, which had earlier been easily used by the anti-democratic powers for furthering their agenda. In his maiden address, Nawaz Sharif has underlined four priorities. Tiding over the electricity crisis and strengthening the sagging economy, top the list of his priorities. He has also talked of eradicating corruption and improving the internal security situation. Strengthening of the roots of democracy in Pakistan and stability in the politics is welcome news for India. But, in spite of his good intentions, it may not be possible for Mian Nawaz Sharif to make much change in Pak policies towards India. In his speech after taking oath as the Prime Minister of Pakistan, he only talked of relations with China and it is clear indication of what lies in the store for Pakistan’s relations with India. He mentioned about US drone attacks in his speech, but he didn’t refer to bilateral relations with India. He specially mentioned about the road and rail links, passing through PoK and linking Gwadar in Pakistan with Xinjiang area of China and this indicates that Pakistan considers China, its most important friend. According to diplomatic observers, in view of tough stand of Pak Army and militant organizations towards India, Nawaz Sharif has avoiding mentioning of Indo-Pak relations. By keeping Foreign and Defence ministries with himself, he has tried to give a message that he will decide about foreign and defence policies, but we are doubtful that the decisions by the Pak Army will have final say in these matters. We congratulate Nawaz Sharif on becoming the Prime Minister of Pakistan.