Author Description
In the second edition of this book, the author has added new material to an already illuminating record of the milestones and turning points in Pakistan's political history. This book attempts to demonstrate that only a genuine democratic dispensation can ensure its survival as a viable federation. Sartaj Aziz argues that the vitality of a nation comes primarily from the value system, cultural heritage, and social energy of its people.As Finance Minister under Nawaz Sharif, he was the main architect of many of the far-reaching reforms introduced in the early 1990s and describes the changing processes of public policy in Pakistan. As Foreign Minister during the Kargil crisis of 1999, he presents an authentic and insightful account of that unfortunate phase in Pakistan's history.Sartaj Aziz has also covered Pakistan's emergence from military rule during the two PPP governments of the Zardari Presidency. He describes Nawaz Sharif's third term as an elected prime minister, his later disqualification, and the subsequent in-house change. In the last Chapter, 'Imran Khan as Prime Minister', the author examines the performance of Imran Khan since the 2018 elections.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This work investigates the core question of how Pakistan can maintain its survival as a viable federation through the lens of its political history and democratic development. Sartaj Aziz, a former Finance and Foreign Minister, utilizes his extensive experience within the Pakistani government to analyze the nation's turning points. He argues that the long-term stability of the state relies on the strength of its cultural heritage, social energy, and the implementation of genuine democratic reforms.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Analysis of economic and public policy reforms from the 1990s.
- First-hand accounts of the 1999 Kargil crisis.
- Documentation of the transition from military rule through the Zardari Presidency.
- Evaluation of the political tenure of Nawaz Sharif and the subsequent rise of Imran Khan.
Scope Limits
- The text focuses primarily on high-level political and economic decision-making rather than grassroots social movements.
- It does not provide an exhaustive history of Pakistan since its inception, focusing instead on specific milestones experienced by the author.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Experts and readers recognize this book as a significant primary source for understanding the internal mechanics of Pakistani governance during the late 20th and early 21st centuries. The prose is noted for its clinical, insider perspective, making it a valuable reference for students of South Asian political history.
Page Count:
584
Publication Date:
2020-12-29
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0190702583
ISBN-13:
9780190702588
Biography
History
International relations
Pakistan
Asia history
Government