The Role of Political Parties and Democratization in Pakistan

Abstract

The aim of this paper is to examine the factors for under performance of political parties in Pakistan. Political parties are important for democratic process in a country. Ironically, political parties in Pakistan could not play the cardinal role in enhancing democratic process. Eccentric attitude of political parties towards intractable issues faced by common people of Pakistan, whimsical approached civil and military governments and lack of charismatic leadership are cogent factors of derailment of democracy in Pakistan. Owing to the fact political parties have lost popularity among masses. The scenario has given birth to dilemma of coalition governments in the state that has proved inimical to democracy. If political parties do not bring pragmatic reforms in their structure, the future of democracy will remain at stake in Pakistan.