What can one say about Imran Khan? A great former cricketer, a compassionate philanthropist … a sorry excuse for a politician. But his continuing forays into bad politics and tactical blunders can be excused, for he is yet to understand that politics is not a game of cricket, and that the democratic election process does not follow the selection policy he enforced as the captain of the Pakistan cricket squad.
The truth is, Khan’s penchant for picking up talented players seemed to have gone haywire when he decided to pick his early political mentors.
Coming from a highly educated, cultivated, and somewhat liberal background, Khan had slipped into reverse gear by the time he decided to enter politics in the early 1990s. In other words, instead of looking forward to becoming an integral part of a new, democratic, and General Zia-less Pakistan, Khan struck an ideological partnership with shadowy characters who were hell-bent on keeping the country stuck in the 1980s – a decade when Pakistan pulled and damaged all of its important political, economic and social muscles under the stressful weight of a myopic dictatorship and the damaging jihad that a dictatorship sponsored in Afghanistan.
By the time Khan officially entered politics sometime in late 1995, it wasn’t his pristine education at Oxford University, or a more insightful understanding of Pakistan’s political history, that was informing his political make-up. On the contrary, his ideology was weaved from the usual reactionary claptrap one expects from former ISI men, especially those who got emotionally involved in Pakistan’s counterproductive Afghan jihad project.
One such chap was General (retd.) Hamid Gul, who is squarely responsible for shaping Khan’s rather warped understanding of Pakistan’s political history and dynamics.
The next natural step for him was, of course, going further down the reactionary rabbit hole, where a world brimming with the most outlandish ideas and concepts of history, politics and society continues to thrive. This hole is the same into which a number of urban, middle-class Pakistanis have decided to fall, becoming an isolated cult of sorts with its own set of prophets that include certain music and fashion celebrities, TV personalities, cricketers, journalists, televangelists, et al.
This cult also has its own understanding of Pakistani politics, society and faith, one that is a highly animated concoction of the distorted content still present in many of the country’s history and religion text books. This world view espouses a narrative patronised by the post-Zia military and intelligence agencies that puts Pakistan at the centre of the universe around which malicious anti-Pakistan and anti-Islam forces are constantly trying to undermine the country’s political and cultural wellbeing. As such, this narrative is highly anti-democracy, and thus looks at Pakistan’s ethnic and sectarian diversity and plurality suspiciously and akin to being a danger to Pakistan’s ideological singularity premised on the belief that there is only a single, homogenous strain of faith and nationalism that thrives (or should thrive) in Pakistan.
Alas, this train of thought does not emerge from the figurative masses. It stems from the Punjab-dominated, military-bourgeois-religious elite and its many fans among the large sections of the province’s urban middle-classes. Mind you, it is the same elite that was highly pro-America during the Cold War and played a leading role to continue undermining democracy and populist political parties through the 1970s, 1980s and 1990s. And if the decade of the 1990s is anything to be learnt from, one can also suggest that it is this elite that becomes highly vocal and animated whenever Pakistan slips away from the clutches of a military dictatorship and plants itself back in the more democratic domain.
To put it simply, it is ironic watching and hearing men such as Khan, Gul, Munawar Hassan and Zaid Hamid spout populist lectures and speeches on corruption, sovereignty and patriotism, when the truth is that much of what these gentlemen are spouting is nothing more than a slippery version of the narrative propagated by the above-mentioned elite whose roots are not in the so-called masses, but in the smoky corridors of Pakistan’s intelligence agencies and in the comfortable drawing-rooms and TV lounges of the country’s urban middle- and upper-income groups.
There is no doubt that men like Hamid, Hassan, and Gul are (in a Machiavellian manner) pretty conscious of this dichotomy and not bothered at all as long as it helps them keep a large section of the country’s urban bourgeois entertained and thrilled by long-winded myths and tall tales of “Muslim supremacy” and assorted tirades against democracy and rational politics.
But I do wonder if Khan is conscious of the fact that much of what he chants in the name of the poor people, free judiciary, national sovereignty, and Islam is largely a by-product of the nonsense generated for years by the country’s economic, military and social elite groups? However, since Khan has not been above hypocrisy and contradiction himself, blundering over and again by questioning the moral make-up of everyone from President Asif Zardari to Mian Nawaz Sharif and Altaf Hussain, only to be faced by some ugly reminders of his own not-so-moralistic past, one can assume that he too is conscious of the above-mentioned dichotomy.
Politics of Pakistan (Urdu: پاکستان کی سیاست ) have taken place in the framework of a federal republic, where the system of government has at times been parliamentary, presidential, or semi-presidential. In the current parliamentary system, the President of Pakistan is the largely ceremonial head of state, the Prime Minister is head of government, and there is a multi-party system. Executive power is exercised by the government. Legislative power is largely vested in the Parliament.
Executive branch
Main office holders
Office Name Party Since
President Asif Ali Zardari PPP 9 September 2008
Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani PPP March 25, 2008
Main office holders
Office Name Party Since
President Asif Ali Zardari PPP 9 September 2008
Prime Minister Yousaf Raza Gillani PPP March 25, 2008
The president of Pakistan, in keeping with the constitutional provision that the state religion is Islam, must be a Muslim. Elected for a five-year term by an Electoral College consisting of members of the Senate and National Assembly and members of the provincial assemblies, the president is eligible for re-election. But no individual may hold the office for more than two consecutive terms. The president may resign or be impeached and may be removed from office due to incapacity or gross misconduct by a two-thirds vote of the members of the parliament. The president generally acts on the advice of the prime minister but has important residual powers.
One of the most important of these powers—a legacy of General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq ;is the president's power to dissolve the National Assembly "in his discretion where, in has arisen in which the Government of the Federation cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and an appeal to the electorate is necessary." This power has twice been granted —by the Eighth Amendment in 1985 and by the Seventeenth Amendment in 2003—and has twice been revoked—by the Thirteenth Amendment in 1997 and by the Eighteenth Amendment in 2010. Despite this most recent power-stripping, the President remains the ex officio chair of the National Security Council, as per the National Security Act 2004.
One of the most important of these powers—a legacy of General Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq ;is the president's power to dissolve the National Assembly "in his discretion where, in has arisen in which the Government of the Federation cannot be carried on in accordance with the provisions of the Constitution and an appeal to the electorate is necessary." This power has twice been granted —by the Eighth Amendment in 1985 and by the Seventeenth Amendment in 2003—and has twice been revoked—by the Thirteenth Amendment in 1997 and by the Eighteenth Amendment in 2010. Despite this most recent power-stripping, the President remains the ex officio chair of the National Security Council, as per the National Security Act 2004.
The prime minister is appointed by the members of the National Assembly through a vote. The prime minister is assisted by the Federal Cabinet, a council of ministers whose members are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister. The Federal Cabinet comprises the ministers, ministers of state, and advisers. As of early 1994, there were thirty-three ministerial portfolios: commerce; communications; culture; defence; defence production; education; environment; finance and economic affairs; food and agriculture; foreign affairs; health; housing; information and broadcasting; interior; Kashmiri affairs and Northern Areas; law and justice; local government; minority affairs; narcotics control; parliamentary affairs; petroleum and natural resources production; planning and development; railways; religious affairs; science and technology; social welfare; special education; sports; state and frontier regions; tourism; water and power; women's development; and youth affairs. Opposition is being Led by Mian Muhammad Nawaz Sharif.
Legislative branch
The bicameral federal legislature consists of the Senate (upper house) and National Assembly (lower house). According to Article 50 of the Constitution, the National Assembly, the Senate and the President together make up a body known as the Majlis-i-Shoora (Council of Advisers).
Pakistan's democracy has no recall method. However, past governments have been dismissed for corruption by the President's invocation of Article 58 of the Constitution. The President's power to dismiss the Prime Minister and dissolve the National Assembly was removed by the Thirteenth Amendment and partially restored by the Seventeenth Amendment.
The bicameral federal legislature consists of the Senate (upper house) and National Assembly (lower house). According to Article 50 of the Constitution, the National Assembly, the Senate and the President together make up a body known as the Majlis-i-Shoora (Council of Advisers).
Pakistan's democracy has no recall method. However, past governments have been dismissed for corruption by the President's invocation of Article 58 of the Constitution. The President's power to dismiss the Prime Minister and dissolve the National Assembly was removed by the Thirteenth Amendment and partially restored by the Seventeenth Amendment.
Senate
The Senate is a permanent legislative body with equal representation from each of the four provinces, elected by the members of their respective provincial assemblies. There are representatives from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and from Islamabad Capital Territory. The chairman of the Senate, under the constitution, is next in line to act as president should the office become vacant and until such time as a new president can be formally elected. Both the Senate and the National Assembly can initiate and pass legislation except for finance bills. Only the National Assembly can approve the federal budget and all finance bills. In the case of other bills, the president may prevent passage unless the legislature in joint sitting overrules the president by a majority of members of both houses present and voting. Unlike the National Assembly, the Senate cannot be dissolved by the President.
The Senate is a permanent legislative body with equal representation from each of the four provinces, elected by the members of their respective provincial assemblies. There are representatives from the Federally Administered Tribal Areas and from Islamabad Capital Territory. The chairman of the Senate, under the constitution, is next in line to act as president should the office become vacant and until such time as a new president can be formally elected. Both the Senate and the National Assembly can initiate and pass legislation except for finance bills. Only the National Assembly can approve the federal budget and all finance bills. In the case of other bills, the president may prevent passage unless the legislature in joint sitting overrules the president by a majority of members of both houses present and voting. Unlike the National Assembly, the Senate cannot be dissolved by the President.
National Assembly
Members of the National Assembly are elected by universal adult suffrage (formerly twenty-one years of age and older but the seventeenth amendment changed it to eighteen years of age.). Seats are allocated to each of the four provinces, the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, and Islamabad Capital Territory on the basis of population. National Assembly members serve for the parliamentary term, which is five years, unless they die or resign sooner, or unless the National Assembly is dissolved. Although the vast majority of the members are Muslim, about 5 percent of the seats are reserved for minorities, including Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs. Elections for minority seats are held on the basis of separate electorates at the same time as the polls for Muslim seats during the general elections. There are also 50+ special seats for women now, and women are selected (i.e. not directly elected in the general election but given representation according to how their parties performed in the general election) on these seat by their party head: another seventeenth amendment innovation.
Members of the National Assembly are elected by universal adult suffrage (formerly twenty-one years of age and older but the seventeenth amendment changed it to eighteen years of age.). Seats are allocated to each of the four provinces, the Federally Administered Tribal Areas, and Islamabad Capital Territory on the basis of population. National Assembly members serve for the parliamentary term, which is five years, unless they die or resign sooner, or unless the National Assembly is dissolved. Although the vast majority of the members are Muslim, about 5 percent of the seats are reserved for minorities, including Christians, Hindus, and Sikhs. Elections for minority seats are held on the basis of separate electorates at the same time as the polls for Muslim seats during the general elections. There are also 50+ special seats for women now, and women are selected (i.e. not directly elected in the general election but given representation according to how their parties performed in the general election) on these seat by their party head: another seventeenth amendment innovation.
Political parties and elections
For other political parties see List of political parties in Pakistan. An overview on elections and election results is included in Elections in Pakistan.
Composition of Parliament (As per Results of the 2008 General Elections)
Parties Votes % Elected seats Reserved seats (Women) Reserved seats (Minorities) Total
Pakistan Peoples Party 10,606,486 30.6% 94 23 4 130
Pakistan Muslim League (N) 6,781,445 19.6% 71 17 3 95
Pakistan Muslim League (Q) 7,989,817 23.0% 42 10 2 55
Muttahida Qaumi Movement 2,507,813 7.4% 19 5 1 26
Awami National Party 700,479 2.0% 10 3 0 13
Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal Pakistan
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F)
Note: Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan, Tehrik-e-Jafaria Pakistan and Jamiat Ahle Hadith did not participate.
772,798 2.2% 5 1 0 6
Pakistan Muslim League (F) 4 1 0 5
Pakistan Peoples Party (Sherpao) 140,707 0.4% 1 0 0 1
National Peoples Party 1 0 0 1
Balochistan National Party (Awami) 1 0 0 1
Independents 18 0 0 18
Total 34,665,978 100% 266 60 10 336
Source: Election Commission of Pakistan, Adam Carr's Electoral Archive
For other political parties see List of political parties in Pakistan. An overview on elections and election results is included in Elections in Pakistan.
Composition of Parliament (As per Results of the 2008 General Elections)
Parties Votes % Elected seats Reserved seats (Women) Reserved seats (Minorities) Total
Pakistan Peoples Party 10,606,486 30.6% 94 23 4 130
Pakistan Muslim League (N) 6,781,445 19.6% 71 17 3 95
Pakistan Muslim League (Q) 7,989,817 23.0% 42 10 2 55
Muttahida Qaumi Movement 2,507,813 7.4% 19 5 1 26
Awami National Party 700,479 2.0% 10 3 0 13
Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal Pakistan
Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam (F)
Note: Jamaat-e-Islami Pakistan, Jamiat Ulema-e-Pakistan, Tehrik-e-Jafaria Pakistan and Jamiat Ahle Hadith did not participate.
772,798 2.2% 5 1 0 6
Pakistan Muslim League (F) 4 1 0 5
Pakistan Peoples Party (Sherpao) 140,707 0.4% 1 0 0 1
National Peoples Party 1 0 0 1
Balochistan National Party (Awami) 1 0 0 1
Independents 18 0 0 18
Total 34,665,978 100% 266 60 10 336
Source: Election Commission of Pakistan, Adam Carr's Electoral Archive
Judicial branch
The judiciary includes the Supreme Court, provincial high courts, District & sessions Courts, Civil and Magistrate courts exercising civil and criminal jurisdiction.[1] Some federal and provincial courts and tribunals such as Services court, Income tax & excise court, Banking court and Boards of Revenue's Tribunals are as well established in all provinces
The judiciary includes the Supreme Court, provincial high courts, District & sessions Courts, Civil and Magistrate courts exercising civil and criminal jurisdiction.[1] Some federal and provincial courts and tribunals such as Services court, Income tax & excise court, Banking court and Boards of Revenue's Tribunals are as well established in all provinces
Supreme Court
The Supreme Court has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is appointed by the president; the other Supreme Court judges are appointed by the president after consultation with the chief justice. The chief justice and judges of the Supreme Court may remain in office until age sixty-five: now 68 years and this is also another clause of seventeenth amendment.
The Supreme Court has original, appellate, and advisory jurisdiction. The Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is appointed by the president; the other Supreme Court judges are appointed by the president after consultation with the chief justice. The chief justice and judges of the Supreme Court may remain in office until age sixty-five: now 68 years and this is also another clause of seventeenth amendment.
Provincial & High Courts
In every province,there is one High Court.Currently all four provinces Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have High courts,respectively called Lahore High Court, Sindh High Court, Peshawar High Court,and Balochistan High Court.After the approval of 18th Constitutional Amendment in April 2010,a new High court is established at Federal Capital Islamabad with the name of Islambad High Court.In 18th Amendment, judges appointments are proposed by a Parliamentary Commission. Judges of the provincial high courts were, previously appointed ( The seventeenth amendment give these powers to the president, previously Prime minister exercised them) by the president after consultation with the chief justice of the Supreme Court, as well as the governor of the province and the chief justice of the high court to which the appointment is being made. High courts have original and appellate jurisdiction.
There is also a Federal Shariat Court consisting of eight Muslim judges, including a chief justice appointed by the president. Three of the judges are ulama, that is, Islamic Scholars, and are well versed in Islamic law. The Federal Shariat Court has original and appellate jurisdiction. This court decides whether any law is repugnant to the injunctions of Islam. When a law is deemed repugnant to Islam, the president, in the case of a federal law, or the governor, in the case of a provincial law, is charged with taking steps to bring the law into conformity with the injunctions of Islam. The court also hears appeals from decisions of criminal courts under laws relating to the enforcement of hudud (see Glossary) laws that is, laws pertaining to such offences as intoxication, theft, and unlawful sexual intercourse.
In addition, there are special courts and tribunals to deal with specific kinds of cases, such as drug courts, commercial courts, labour courts, traffic courts, an insurance appellate tribunal, an income tax appellate tribunal, and special courts for bank offences. There are also special courts to try terrorists. Appeals from special courts go to high courts except for labour and traffic courts, which have their own forums for appeal. Appeals from the tribunals go to the Supreme Court.
In every province,there is one High Court.Currently all four provinces Punjab, Sindh, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan have High courts,respectively called Lahore High Court, Sindh High Court, Peshawar High Court,and Balochistan High Court.After the approval of 18th Constitutional Amendment in April 2010,a new High court is established at Federal Capital Islamabad with the name of Islambad High Court.In 18th Amendment, judges appointments are proposed by a Parliamentary Commission. Judges of the provincial high courts were, previously appointed ( The seventeenth amendment give these powers to the president, previously Prime minister exercised them) by the president after consultation with the chief justice of the Supreme Court, as well as the governor of the province and the chief justice of the high court to which the appointment is being made. High courts have original and appellate jurisdiction.
There is also a Federal Shariat Court consisting of eight Muslim judges, including a chief justice appointed by the president. Three of the judges are ulama, that is, Islamic Scholars, and are well versed in Islamic law. The Federal Shariat Court has original and appellate jurisdiction. This court decides whether any law is repugnant to the injunctions of Islam. When a law is deemed repugnant to Islam, the president, in the case of a federal law, or the governor, in the case of a provincial law, is charged with taking steps to bring the law into conformity with the injunctions of Islam. The court also hears appeals from decisions of criminal courts under laws relating to the enforcement of hudud (see Glossary) laws that is, laws pertaining to such offences as intoxication, theft, and unlawful sexual intercourse.
In addition, there are special courts and tribunals to deal with specific kinds of cases, such as drug courts, commercial courts, labour courts, traffic courts, an insurance appellate tribunal, an income tax appellate tribunal, and special courts for bank offences. There are also special courts to try terrorists. Appeals from special courts go to high courts except for labour and traffic courts, which have their own forums for appeal. Appeals from the tribunals go to the Supreme Court.
Ombudsman/Mohtasib
A further feature of the judicial system is the office of Mohtasib (Ombudsman), which is provided for in the constitution. The office of Mohtasib was established in many early Muslim states to ensure that no wrongs were done to citizens. Appointed by the president, the Mohtasib holds office for four years; the term cannot be extended or renewed. The Mohtasib's purpose is to institutionalize a system for enforcing administrative accountability, through investigating and rectifying any injustice done to a person through maladministration by a federal agency or a federal government official. The Mohtasib is empowered to award compensation to those who have suffered loss or damage as a result of maladministration. Excluded from jurisdiction, however, are personal grievances or service matters of a public servant as well as matters relating to foreign affairs, national defence, and the armed services. This institution is designed to bridge the gap between administrator and citizen, to improve administrative processes and procedures, and to help curb misuse of discretionary powers.
A further feature of the judicial system is the office of Mohtasib (Ombudsman), which is provided for in the constitution. The office of Mohtasib was established in many early Muslim states to ensure that no wrongs were done to citizens. Appointed by the president, the Mohtasib holds office for four years; the term cannot be extended or renewed. The Mohtasib's purpose is to institutionalize a system for enforcing administrative accountability, through investigating and rectifying any injustice done to a person through maladministration by a federal agency or a federal government official. The Mohtasib is empowered to award compensation to those who have suffered loss or damage as a result of maladministration. Excluded from jurisdiction, however, are personal grievances or service matters of a public servant as well as matters relating to foreign affairs, national defence, and the armed services. This institution is designed to bridge the gap between administrator and citizen, to improve administrative processes and procedures, and to help curb misuse of discretionary powers.
Political background
Main article: Political history of Pakistan
Pakistan has been ruled by both democratic and military governments.[2] The first decade was marred with political unrest and instability resulting in frequent collapses of civilian democratic governments. From 1947 to 1958 as many as seven Prime Ministers of Pakistan either resigned or were ousted. This political instability paved the way for Pakistan’s first military take over. On October 7, 1958 Pakistan’s civilian and first President Iskander Mirza in collaboration with General Mohammad Ayub Khan abrogated Pakistan’s constitution and declared Martial Law.
General Ayub Khan was the president from 1958 to 1969, and General Yahya Khan from 1969 to 1971, Justice Khan Habibullah Khan Marwat elected first & second Chairman Senate of Pakistan several times Mr. Khan Sahib acted as a President Islamic Republic of Pakistan, with Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as the first civilian martial law administrator. Civilian, yet autocratic, rule continued from 1972 to 1977 under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, but he was deposed by General Zia-Ul-Haq. General Zia was killed in a plane crash in 1988, after which Benazir Bhutto, daughter of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was elected as the Prime Minister of Pakistan. She was the youngest woman ever to be elected the Head of Government and the first woman to be elected as the Head of Government of a Muslim country. Her government was followed by that of Nawaz Sharif, and the two leaders alternated until the military coup by General Pervez Musharraf in 1999. From the resignation of President Rafiq Tarar in 2001, to his own resignation in 2008, Musharraf was the President of Pakistan. In 2008, Asif Ali Zardari was elected president.
Nation-wide parliamentary elections were held in October 2002, with the PML-Q winning a plurality of seats in the National Assembly of Pakistan, and Zafarullah Khan Jamali of that party emerging as Prime Minister. Jamali resigned on June 26, 2004. PML-Q leader Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain became interim PM, and was succeeded by Finance Minister and former Citibank Vice President Shaukat Aziz, who was elected Prime Minister on August 27, 2004 by a National Assembly vote of 191 to 151.
In the October 2002 general elections, the Pakistan Muslim League (Q) (PML-Q) won a plurality of National Assembly seats with the second-largest group being the Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP), a sub-party of the PPP. Zafarullah Khan Jamali of PML-Q emerged as Prime Minister but resigned on 26 June 2004 and was replaced by PML-Q leader Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain as interim Prime Minister. On 28 August 2004 the National Assembly voted 191 to 151 to elect the Finance Minister and former Citibank Vice President Shaukat Aziz as Prime Minister. The Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal, a coalition of Islamic religious parties, won elections in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and increased their representation in the National Assembly - until their defeat in the 2008 elections.
The Pakistan's federal cabinet on April 12, 2006 decided that general elections would be held after the completion of the assemblies constitutional term by the end of 2007 or beginning of 2008.[3]
Main article: Political history of Pakistan
Pakistan has been ruled by both democratic and military governments.[2] The first decade was marred with political unrest and instability resulting in frequent collapses of civilian democratic governments. From 1947 to 1958 as many as seven Prime Ministers of Pakistan either resigned or were ousted. This political instability paved the way for Pakistan’s first military take over. On October 7, 1958 Pakistan’s civilian and first President Iskander Mirza in collaboration with General Mohammad Ayub Khan abrogated Pakistan’s constitution and declared Martial Law.
General Ayub Khan was the president from 1958 to 1969, and General Yahya Khan from 1969 to 1971, Justice Khan Habibullah Khan Marwat elected first & second Chairman Senate of Pakistan several times Mr. Khan Sahib acted as a President Islamic Republic of Pakistan, with Zulfikar Ali Bhutto as the first civilian martial law administrator. Civilian, yet autocratic, rule continued from 1972 to 1977 under Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, but he was deposed by General Zia-Ul-Haq. General Zia was killed in a plane crash in 1988, after which Benazir Bhutto, daughter of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, was elected as the Prime Minister of Pakistan. She was the youngest woman ever to be elected the Head of Government and the first woman to be elected as the Head of Government of a Muslim country. Her government was followed by that of Nawaz Sharif, and the two leaders alternated until the military coup by General Pervez Musharraf in 1999. From the resignation of President Rafiq Tarar in 2001, to his own resignation in 2008, Musharraf was the President of Pakistan. In 2008, Asif Ali Zardari was elected president.
Nation-wide parliamentary elections were held in October 2002, with the PML-Q winning a plurality of seats in the National Assembly of Pakistan, and Zafarullah Khan Jamali of that party emerging as Prime Minister. Jamali resigned on June 26, 2004. PML-Q leader Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain became interim PM, and was succeeded by Finance Minister and former Citibank Vice President Shaukat Aziz, who was elected Prime Minister on August 27, 2004 by a National Assembly vote of 191 to 151.
In the October 2002 general elections, the Pakistan Muslim League (Q) (PML-Q) won a plurality of National Assembly seats with the second-largest group being the Pakistan Peoples Party Parliamentarians (PPPP), a sub-party of the PPP. Zafarullah Khan Jamali of PML-Q emerged as Prime Minister but resigned on 26 June 2004 and was replaced by PML-Q leader Chaudhry Shujaat Hussain as interim Prime Minister. On 28 August 2004 the National Assembly voted 191 to 151 to elect the Finance Minister and former Citibank Vice President Shaukat Aziz as Prime Minister. The Muttahida Majlis-e-Amal, a coalition of Islamic religious parties, won elections in Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, and increased their representation in the National Assembly - until their defeat in the 2008 elections.
The Pakistan's federal cabinet on April 12, 2006 decided that general elections would be held after the completion of the assemblies constitutional term by the end of 2007 or beginning of 2008.[3]
Form of Government
Officially a federal republic, Pakistan has had a long history of alternating periods of electoral democracy and authoritarian military government. Military presidents include General Ayub Khan in the 1960s, General Zia ul Haq in the 1980s, and General Pervez Musharraf from 1999. However, a majority of Pakistan's Heads of State and Heads of Government have been elected civilian leaders. General elections were held in October 2002. After monitoring the elections, the Commonwealth Observer Group stated in conclusion:
We believe that on election day this was a credible election: the will of the people was expressed and the results reflected their wishes. However, in the context of various measures taken by the government we are not persuaded of the overall fairness of the process as a whole. [4]
On May 22, 2004, the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group re-admitted Pakistan into the Commonwealth, formally acknowledging its progress in returning to democracy.
Officially a federal republic, Pakistan has had a long history of alternating periods of electoral democracy and authoritarian military government. Military presidents include General Ayub Khan in the 1960s, General Zia ul Haq in the 1980s, and General Pervez Musharraf from 1999. However, a majority of Pakistan's Heads of State and Heads of Government have been elected civilian leaders. General elections were held in October 2002. After monitoring the elections, the Commonwealth Observer Group stated in conclusion:
We believe that on election day this was a credible election: the will of the people was expressed and the results reflected their wishes. However, in the context of various measures taken by the government we are not persuaded of the overall fairness of the process as a whole. [4]
On May 22, 2004, the Commonwealth Ministerial Action Group re-admitted Pakistan into the Commonwealth, formally acknowledging its progress in returning to democracy.
Provincial Governments
Pakistan is subdivided into 4 provinces, 2 territorie, and 1 capital territory. Each province has a Provincial Assembly, a directly elected legislature. Members are elected for five-year terms. Each Assembly elects a Chief Minister, who then selects the ministers of his or her cabinet.
Balochistan
Federally Administered Tribal Areas*
Islamabad Capital Territory**
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Punjab
Sindh
Gilgit-Baltistan has semi provincial status with a directly elected Legislature,an elected Chief minister and federally appointed Governor for the region.
Note; the Federally administered portion also includes the disputed/held Kashmir region includes Azad Kashmir and the Northern Areas.
See also: Government of Pakistan.
Pakistan is subdivided into 4 provinces, 2 territorie, and 1 capital territory. Each province has a Provincial Assembly, a directly elected legislature. Members are elected for five-year terms. Each Assembly elects a Chief Minister, who then selects the ministers of his or her cabinet.
Balochistan
Federally Administered Tribal Areas*
Islamabad Capital Territory**
Khyber Pakhtunkhwa
Punjab
Sindh
Gilgit-Baltistan has semi provincial status with a directly elected Legislature,an elected Chief minister and federally appointed Governor for the region.
Note; the Federally administered portion also includes the disputed/held Kashmir region includes Azad Kashmir and the Northern Areas.
See also: Government of Pakistan.
Local Governments
Pakistan's provinces are divided into distrcts called zillas in local languages ( counterpart to a county in US or UK terminology). A zilla is further subdivided into Sub division called tehsils (roughly equivalent to a borough in an integrated multi-tier (federated) systemic context, such as the one to be found in Montreal (Canada, 2002) and Birmingham (UK, 2001 announcement) or known as arrondissements in French context. Tehsils may contain town or municipalities. Pakistan's system is the one that applies an integrated federated systemic framework most comprehensively, so far.
This methodology is not new to the region, as it is similar to what is referred to as the old Panchayat Raj system in India that was introduced by Britain (which was first nation (1890s) to adapt revolutionary Paris (1790) framework to implement a 3-tier rural version (county, district, parish councils) by grafting the 2-tier Paris framework on pre-existing parish councils and urban context (London)) during colonial era. In India it was implemented in some regions and not others; and then allowed to lie fallow. It got new life after the very successful West Bengal revival in the 1970s, which eventually inspired the 1990s Constitutional Amendment making it national policy.
The main difference is that Pakistan is the only country with an urban framework, as well, in the region today; and Pakistan's system has common-representational framework between tiers (as Montreal and Birmingham also have in 2-tier context—even though Birmingham is working on implementing a 3- tier system); and, it has a bottom-up representational framework like the Canadian example. Pakistan had the only 3-tier integrated bottom-up common-representational local government system, until it was adapted for another country in 2003. UK, the country which first introduced this methodology in the region, also has the urban examples of London and Birmingham (being implemented in Post- 2001 era by building on steps first introduced in 1980s); as does France (where largest cities and smaller units have created such frameworks either by devolution (Marseilles and Lyon, in addition to Paris) or by integration of neighbouring units (such as the Nantes region pursuant to the Marcellin Act of 1970s); and, Canada.
This methodology is being increasingly adapted, as it delivers greater systemic productivity, being a more inclusive framework that provides greater regional integration. In the US, the 7 county Twin Cities (MN) regional system and Portland (OR) Metro are both the most integrated US examples;but, also those often cited in the US for what they have achieved. These US examples- with their multi-county framework- are similar to what is in place in France after regional unit introduction (making France have a 3-tier systemic framework also in the Commune (municipal/lowest tier local unit), Department(county), Regional unit context). Multi-county frameworks are suitable for a very suburbanized system like in the US. After France and Britain, the Indian colony of Britain was the third region to see this methodology implemented.
There are over five thousand local governments in Pakistan. Since 2001, the vast majority of these have been led by democratically elected local councils, each headed by a Nazim (mayor or supervisor.) Council elections are held every four years.
Pakistan's provinces are divided into distrcts called zillas in local languages ( counterpart to a county in US or UK terminology). A zilla is further subdivided into Sub division called tehsils (roughly equivalent to a borough in an integrated multi-tier (federated) systemic context, such as the one to be found in Montreal (Canada, 2002) and Birmingham (UK, 2001 announcement) or known as arrondissements in French context. Tehsils may contain town or municipalities. Pakistan's system is the one that applies an integrated federated systemic framework most comprehensively, so far.
This methodology is not new to the region, as it is similar to what is referred to as the old Panchayat Raj system in India that was introduced by Britain (which was first nation (1890s) to adapt revolutionary Paris (1790) framework to implement a 3-tier rural version (county, district, parish councils) by grafting the 2-tier Paris framework on pre-existing parish councils and urban context (London)) during colonial era. In India it was implemented in some regions and not others; and then allowed to lie fallow. It got new life after the very successful West Bengal revival in the 1970s, which eventually inspired the 1990s Constitutional Amendment making it national policy.
The main difference is that Pakistan is the only country with an urban framework, as well, in the region today; and Pakistan's system has common-representational framework between tiers (as Montreal and Birmingham also have in 2-tier context—even though Birmingham is working on implementing a 3- tier system); and, it has a bottom-up representational framework like the Canadian example. Pakistan had the only 3-tier integrated bottom-up common-representational local government system, until it was adapted for another country in 2003. UK, the country which first introduced this methodology in the region, also has the urban examples of London and Birmingham (being implemented in Post- 2001 era by building on steps first introduced in 1980s); as does France (where largest cities and smaller units have created such frameworks either by devolution (Marseilles and Lyon, in addition to Paris) or by integration of neighbouring units (such as the Nantes region pursuant to the Marcellin Act of 1970s); and, Canada.
This methodology is being increasingly adapted, as it delivers greater systemic productivity, being a more inclusive framework that provides greater regional integration. In the US, the 7 county Twin Cities (MN) regional system and Portland (OR) Metro are both the most integrated US examples;but, also those often cited in the US for what they have achieved. These US examples- with their multi-county framework- are similar to what is in place in France after regional unit introduction (making France have a 3-tier systemic framework also in the Commune (municipal/lowest tier local unit), Department(county), Regional unit context). Multi-county frameworks are suitable for a very suburbanized system like in the US. After France and Britain, the Indian colony of Britain was the third region to see this methodology implemented.
There are over five thousand local governments in Pakistan. Since 2001, the vast majority of these have been led by democratically elected local councils, each headed by a Nazim (mayor or supervisor.) Council elections are held every four years.
Foreign relations
Main article: Foreign relations of Pakistan
Pakistan is the second largest Muslim country in terms of population, and its status as a declared nuclear power, being the only Muslim nation to have that status, plays a part in its international role. It is also an active member of the United Nations. Historically, its foreign policy has encompassed difficult relations with India, a desire for a stable Afghanistan, long-standing close relations with the People's Republic of China, extensive security and economic interests in the Persian Gulf and wide-ranging bilateral relations with the United States and other Western countries. Pakistan is also an important member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Pakistan has used the OIC as a forum for Enlightened Moderation,[5] its plan to promote a renaissance and enlightenment in the Islamic world.
Wary of Soviet expansion, Pakistan had strong relations with both the United States of America and the People's Republic of China during much of the Cold War. It was a member of the CENTO and SEATO military alliances. Its alliance with the United States was especially close after the Soviets invaded the neighbouring country of Afghanistan.
In 1964, Pakistan signed the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) Pact with Turkey and Iran, when all three countries were closely allied with the U.S., and as neighbours of the Soviet Union, wary of perceived Soviet expansionism. To this day, Pakistan has a close relationship with Turkey. RCD became defunct after the Iranian Revolution, and a Pakistani-Turkish initiative led to the founding of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) in 1985. Pakistan's relations with India have improved recently and this has opened up Pakistan's foreign policy to issues beyond security. This development might completely change the complexion of Pakistan's foreign relations.
Pakistan joined the Non-Aligned Movement in 1979.
Main article: Foreign relations of Pakistan
Pakistan is the second largest Muslim country in terms of population, and its status as a declared nuclear power, being the only Muslim nation to have that status, plays a part in its international role. It is also an active member of the United Nations. Historically, its foreign policy has encompassed difficult relations with India, a desire for a stable Afghanistan, long-standing close relations with the People's Republic of China, extensive security and economic interests in the Persian Gulf and wide-ranging bilateral relations with the United States and other Western countries. Pakistan is also an important member of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC). Pakistan has used the OIC as a forum for Enlightened Moderation,[5] its plan to promote a renaissance and enlightenment in the Islamic world.
Wary of Soviet expansion, Pakistan had strong relations with both the United States of America and the People's Republic of China during much of the Cold War. It was a member of the CENTO and SEATO military alliances. Its alliance with the United States was especially close after the Soviets invaded the neighbouring country of Afghanistan.
In 1964, Pakistan signed the Regional Cooperation for Development (RCD) Pact with Turkey and Iran, when all three countries were closely allied with the U.S., and as neighbours of the Soviet Union, wary of perceived Soviet expansionism. To this day, Pakistan has a close relationship with Turkey. RCD became defunct after the Iranian Revolution, and a Pakistani-Turkish initiative led to the founding of the Economic Cooperation Organisation (ECO) in 1985. Pakistan's relations with India have improved recently and this has opened up Pakistan's foreign policy to issues beyond security. This development might completely change the complexion of Pakistan's foreign relations.
Pakistan joined the Non-Aligned Movement in 1979.
Political families of Pakistan
1 Bhutto Family
2 Shareef Family
3 Soomro Family
4 Chauhdrys of Gujrat
5 Jatoi Family
6 Talpur Family
7 Gabol Family
8 Karlal Sardars of Abbottabad
9 Marwats
10 Hyat Family
11 Junejo Family
12 Hidayatullah Family
13 Pathan Family
14 Rao Family
15 Zia-ul-Haq Family
16 Noon family
17 Malik Awan Family
18 Leghari Family
19 Qazi Family
20 Zardari family
21 Tiwana Family
22 Chaudhry's of Chillianwala
23 Qazis of Chiniot
24 Kalabagh Family (Mianwali)
25 See also
26 References
1 Bhutto Family
2 Shareef Family
3 Soomro Family
4 Chauhdrys of Gujrat
5 Jatoi Family
6 Talpur Family
7 Gabol Family
8 Karlal Sardars of Abbottabad
9 Marwats
10 Hyat Family
11 Junejo Family
12 Hidayatullah Family
13 Pathan Family
14 Rao Family
15 Zia-ul-Haq Family
16 Noon family
17 Malik Awan Family
18 Leghari Family
19 Qazi Family
20 Zardari family
21 Tiwana Family
22 Chaudhry's of Chillianwala
23 Qazis of Chiniot
24 Kalabagh Family (Mianwali)
25 See also
26 References
Bhutto Family
The members of Bhutto family (Urdu: خاندان بھٹو) in politics:
Pir Bux Bhutto
Doda Khan Bhutto
Khuda Bux Bhutto, Ameer Bux Bhutto, Illahi Bux Bhutto (Honorary Magistrate Larkana District)
Ghulam Murtaza Bhutto, Rasul Bux Bhutto.
Sir Shah Nawaz Bhutto- The Dewan of Junagadh and the Father of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto (Member Bombay Council).
Sardar Wahid Baksh Bhutto - (born 1898, died 25 December 1931) was a landowner of Sindh, an elected representative to the Central Legislative Assembly and an educational philanthropist.
Nawab Nabi Bux Bhutto (Member, Central Legislative Assembly)
Khan Bahadur Ahmad Khan Bhutto
Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, son of Sir Shah Nawaz (President (1970–1973); Prime Minister (1973–1977))
Sardar Mumtaz Bhutto, cousin of Zulfikar, (chief of Bhutto tribe, former chief minister and Governor of Sindh, Federal Minister of Pakistan)
Nusrat Bhutto, wife of Zulfikar (former minister without portfolio)
Benazir Bhutto, daughter of Zulfikar (Prime Minister, 1988–1990 and 1993–1996), assassinated December 27, 2007.
Murtaza Bhutto, elder son of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and the brother of former Prime Minister of Pakistan Benazir Bhutto. He was usually known as Murtaza Bhutto and was assassinated under mysterious circumstances.
Shahnawaz Bhutto, Shahnawaz was studying in Switzerland when Zia ul Haq's military regime executed his father in 1979. Prior to the execution On July 18, 1985, the 27 year old Shahnawaz was found dead in Nice, France. He died under mysterious circumstances.
Fatima Bhutto, Fatima was born in Kabul, Afghanistan while her father Murtaza Bhutto was in exile during the military regime of General Zia ul Haq. Murtaza Bhutto, was son of former Pakistan's President and Prime Minister, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.
Ameer Bux Bhutto, currently Vice President of Sindh National Front and also ex-Member of Sindh Assembly. He is son of Sardar Mumtaz Bhutto.
Ali Hyder Bhutto, younger son of Sardar Mumtaz Ali Bhutto and brother of Ameer Bux Bhutto.
Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto Jr, his father Murtaza Bhutto was in exile during the military regime of General Zia ul Haq. Murtaza Bhutto, was son of former Pakistan's President and Prime Minister, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto.
- Shareef Family
- Nawaz Shareef, Former Prime Minister of Pakistan
Shahbaz Shareef, Chief Minister of Punjab
Hamza Shahbaz Shareef, Son of Shahbaz Shareef, Member National Assembly of Pakistan
- Soomro Family
The members of Soomro family (Urdu: خاندان سومرو) in politics are:
Khan Bahadur Allah Bux Soomro, Twice Chief Minister of Sindh
Sadar Mohammad Usman Soomro, M.L.A in 1937 from Thatta District
Khan Bahadur Moula Bux Soomro, Ex Federal and Provincial Minister, was Chief advisor to Zia ul Haq
Ahmad Mian Soomro, Parliamentarian, Deputy Speaker of the West Pakistan Assembly, Senator
Elahi Bux Soomro, remained Member of National Assembly of Pakistan, Speaker National Assembly of Pakistan, Federal Minister
Rahim Bux Soomro, Minister Sindh
Mohammad Mian Soomro, remained President of Pakistan, Prime Minister of Pakistan, Senate of Pakistan and Governor of Sindh
Begum Saeeda Soomro District Nazim Jacobabad
Mohammad Khan Soomro, s/o Sardar Usman Soomro, remained MPA and Member of National Assembly of Pakistan
Dr. Abdul Wahid Soomro, Member of National Assembly of Pakistan
Iftikhar Soomro, MPA, Provincial Minister Sindh
Sardar Junaid Ahmed Soomro, MPA of Sindh Assembly [Tribal Leader]
Sanaullah Soomro, Leader Pakistan People Party District Thatta.
Chauhdrys of Gujrat
The members of Chaudhry Family
Chaudhry Zahoor Elahi (Late) (A seasoned parliamentarian who played a major role in restoration of democracy and human rights in Pakistan)
Chaudhry Shujat Hussain (Prime Minister of Pakistan - June - August 2004)
Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi (Chief Minister of Punjab - October - 2002 to October 2007)
Chaudhry Wajahat Hussain (Younger brother of Chaudhry Shujat Hussain, Member of National Assembly)
Chaudhry Shafaat Hussain (Younger brother of Chaudhry Shujat Hussain and the District Nazim of Gujrat since 2001)
Moonis Elahi (Son of Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, Member of Punjab Assembly)
The members of Chaudhry Family
Chaudhry Zahoor Elahi (Late) (A seasoned parliamentarian who played a major role in restoration of democracy and human rights in Pakistan)
Chaudhry Shujat Hussain (Prime Minister of Pakistan - June - August 2004)
Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi (Chief Minister of Punjab - October - 2002 to October 2007)
Chaudhry Wajahat Hussain (Younger brother of Chaudhry Shujat Hussain, Member of National Assembly)
Chaudhry Shafaat Hussain (Younger brother of Chaudhry Shujat Hussain and the District Nazim of Gujrat since 2001)
Moonis Elahi (Son of Chaudhry Pervaiz Elahi, Member of Punjab Assembly)
Jatoi Family
The members of Jatoi family in politics:
Khan Bahadur Imam Bax Khan Jatoi
Mir Abid Jatoi
Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi, Ex-Acting Prime Minister of Pakistan
Masroor Jatoi, Son of Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi, MPA Sindh
Abdul Hameed Khan Jatoi
Liaqat Ali Khan Jatoi, Ex-Chief Minister Sindh, Federal Minister for Water and Power
Abdul Qayum Jatoi
Dr Ibrhaim Jatoi,Tribal Chief
The members of Jatoi family in politics:
Khan Bahadur Imam Bax Khan Jatoi
Mir Abid Jatoi
Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi, Ex-Acting Prime Minister of Pakistan
Masroor Jatoi, Son of Ghulam Mustafa Jatoi, MPA Sindh
Abdul Hameed Khan Jatoi
Liaqat Ali Khan Jatoi, Ex-Chief Minister Sindh, Federal Minister for Water and Power
Abdul Qayum Jatoi
Dr Ibrhaim Jatoi,Tribal Chief
Talpur Family
The members of Shahadani Talpur's in Politics are:
Mir Ali Ahmed Talpur, Former Leader of Khaksar Tehreek, Member of Legislative Assembly, Food Minister of Sindh, Member of National Assembly, Defence Minister of Pakistan.
Sher-e-Sindh Mir Rasool Baksh Talpur, Former Governor of Sindh, Senior Minister Of Pakistan.
Mir Haider Ali Talpur son of Mir Ali Ahmed Talpur, Former 1st Class Cricketer, Councillor, Member of Provincial Assembly Sindh 1985, Provincial Minister 1999 Industries & Minerals
The members of Shahadani Talpur's in Politics are:
Mir Ali Ahmed Talpur, Former Leader of Khaksar Tehreek, Member of Legislative Assembly, Food Minister of Sindh, Member of National Assembly, Defence Minister of Pakistan.
Sher-e-Sindh Mir Rasool Baksh Talpur, Former Governor of Sindh, Senior Minister Of Pakistan.
Mir Haider Ali Talpur son of Mir Ali Ahmed Talpur, Former 1st Class Cricketer, Councillor, Member of Provincial Assembly Sindh 1985, Provincial Minister 1999 Industries & Minerals
Gabol Family
Sardar Khan Bahadur Allah Bakhsh Gabol, Member Bombay Legislative Assembly 1928, Member Sindh Legislative Assembly 1937 and Mayor of Karachi for two terms.
Abdul Sattar Gabol (Son of Sardar Khan Bahadur Allah Bakhsh), Member National Assembly 1970 and 1977 and Federal Minister for Labor and Manpower.
Sardar Nabil Ahmed Gabol (Grandson of Sardar Khan Bahadur Allah Bakhsh and son of Sardar Ahmed Khan bbbbGabol), Member Sindh Assembly 1988,1993,1997; Member National Assembly 2002, 2008 and Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping.
Sardar Khan Bahadur Allah Bakhsh Gabol, Member Bombay Legislative Assembly 1928, Member Sindh Legislative Assembly 1937 and Mayor of Karachi for two terms.
Abdul Sattar Gabol (Son of Sardar Khan Bahadur Allah Bakhsh), Member National Assembly 1970 and 1977 and Federal Minister for Labor and Manpower.
Sardar Nabil Ahmed Gabol (Grandson of Sardar Khan Bahadur Allah Bakhsh and son of Sardar Ahmed Khan bbbbGabol), Member Sindh Assembly 1988,1993,1997; Member National Assembly 2002, 2008 and Federal Minister for Ports and Shipping.
Karlal Sardars of Abbottabad
Captain Sardar Zain Muhammad Khan, MLA 1946-52,Member All India Muslim League Organizing Committee ,Member All India Muslim League Parliamentary Board,Parliamentary Secretary For Education NWFP 1947-52.
Sardar Aslam Khan Of Bagan, MLA NWFP,1952-56.
Sardar Muhammad Aslam Advocate S/o Capt Sardar Zain Muhammad Khan,Senator 1973-77,Member PPP Central Executive Committee 1967-77,Thrice President District Bar Abbottabad.
Sardar Gulzaman, Member Provincial assembly NWFP-1970-77,88-90,Provincial minister NWFP 1973-77.
Sardar Haider Zaman Baba,MPA NWFP 1985-88,88-90,Chairman District Council Abbottabad 88-90,Provincial Minister,District Nazim Abbottabad,Founder Tehreek Suba Hazara.
Sardar Gul Khitab Khan,MNA 1988-90.
Sardar Yaqub,Deputy Speaker National assembly Of Pakistan 2002-2007.
Sardar Idrees ,Provincial Minister Local Government NWFP 2002-2007.
Sardar GhulamNabi,MPA NWFP .
Captain Sardar Zain Muhammad Khan, MLA 1946-52,Member All India Muslim League Organizing Committee ,Member All India Muslim League Parliamentary Board,Parliamentary Secretary For Education NWFP 1947-52.
Sardar Aslam Khan Of Bagan, MLA NWFP,1952-56.
Sardar Muhammad Aslam Advocate S/o Capt Sardar Zain Muhammad Khan,Senator 1973-77,Member PPP Central Executive Committee 1967-77,Thrice President District Bar Abbottabad.
Sardar Gulzaman, Member Provincial assembly NWFP-1970-77,88-90,Provincial minister NWFP 1973-77.
Sardar Haider Zaman Baba,MPA NWFP 1985-88,88-90,Chairman District Council Abbottabad 88-90,Provincial Minister,District Nazim Abbottabad,Founder Tehreek Suba Hazara.
Sardar Gul Khitab Khan,MNA 1988-90.
Sardar Yaqub,Deputy Speaker National assembly Of Pakistan 2002-2007.
Sardar Idrees ,Provincial Minister Local Government NWFP 2002-2007.
Sardar GhulamNabi,MPA NWFP .
Marwats
Some Notables of Marwat Family are listed below;
- Justice (Rtd) Khan Habibullah Khan Marwat (1901–1978)was a Meenakhel by origin, educated at Islamia College Peshawar, Edwardes College Peshawar, ALIGARH MUSLIM UNIVERSITY. Was Justice of West Pakistan High Court, first & second Chairman of the Senate of Pakistan. Justice Khan Habibullah Khan also remained as an acting President of Pakistan, when the President Fazal Ilahi Chaudhry went abroad. Pakistan's Interior Minister and also Chief Minister of West Pakistan (One Unit).Was elected to the first ever Legislative Council of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa (then NWFP) (1932) firsr as a member and later Deputy Speaker.
(Justice) Shah Nawaz Khan was a Meenakhel by origin, who remained Chief Justice of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa and also remained a Judge Supreme Court of Pakistan. He also remained Governor of NWFP.
Faizullah Khan Ghazni Khel ( Indian Musliam contractor, Member Legelsative Assembly 1937-46)
Barrister Khan Saifullah Khan Ghazni Khel
Khan Muhammad Azeem Khan Meenakhel (Raees Lakki Marwat). (1912–1985). Younger brother of Khan Habibullah Khan Marwat. Remained CHAIRMAN Lakki Town Committee for 40 years (1937–1977).
Muhammad Yousaf Khan Marwat Meenakhel (Lakki Marwat). (1930–1989). Elder son of Khan Habibullah Khan Marwat. Remained Senior Superintendent of Pakistan Railways Police SSP.
Abeedullah jan (s/o Nasrullah Khan) also belongs to Meenakhel clan, has been Chief Conservator of Forests NWFP, Inspector General (IG) of Forests & Additional Secretary, Govt of Pakistan. He remained Minister for Food & Agriculture & Forests, Member (Provincial) NWFP Public Service Commission and lately Advisor to Chief Minister NWFP.
Anwar Kamal Khan Marwat is a MeenaKhel by origin and a former Member of Provincial Assembly as well as a former Provincial Minister of Revenue and Irrigation and Senator. Currently a General Secretary PML (N) Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. Also Chief Organizer (FATA). Chairman Standing Committee for Health (KPK). Mr. Marwat had been MPA four times and is central leader of PML (N).
Senator Saleem Saifullah (ex fedral minister)
Humayun Saifullah sitting MNA
Mohammad Saleem Khan Marwat, Meenakhel, Provincial Civil Service (Executive Branch), son of Khan Muhammad Azeem Khan Meenakhel (Born: 20-December-1938 - Died: 24-August-2009). Retired in 1998 from the status of Provincial Secretary. He also remained as Managing Director (M.D) Frontier Education Foundation. He also worked as a Commissioner D.I.Khan (1989)
Akhtar Munir Khan Marwat, a retired Captain of the Pakistan Army, is a Meenakhel by origin, and retired as Additional Federal Secretary (KANA) Kashmir Affairs and Northern Areas to Government of Pakistan.
Tariq Humayun Khan Marwat (late), was MEENAKHEL by origin. He was son of Justice & Governor Shah Nawaz Khan, Meenakhel was a renowed Politician of Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa. He was a President Millat Party (Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa)& National Alliance and was a close friend of Farooq Ahmad Khan Laghari (President of Pakistan.
Barristor Abid Nawaz Marwat s/o (L) Tariq Hamayun Khan & grandson of Shah Nawaz Khan, Justice & Governor NWFP, is Meenakhel by origin and presently Senior Vice President of PML (Q) Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, also an active Member Central Executive Committee & Central Working Committee.Barrister completed his studies from UK and spend most of time in FRANCE.
Khan Mansoor Kamal Khan Marwat is Meenakhel by origin and son of Anwar Kamal Khan and grandson of Khan Habibullah Khanis an engineer by profession and currently working for Orascom at Elite group of companies in Islamabad. He is also Divisional Chairman (BANNU) National Peace Counicil for Interfaith Harmony, (Ministry of Interior and Religious Affairs)
Asadullah Khan Marwat, is Meenakhel by origin son of Akhtar Munir Marwat and grandson of KHAN HABIBULLAH KHAN MARWAT. He is presently working in Mobilink, Pakistan.
Sanaullah Khan Marwat, is Meenakhel by origin son of Akhtar Munir Marwat and grandson of KHAN HABIBULLAH KHAN MARWAT. He is presently working in UNOPS as a SECURITY HEAD in Pakistan.
Muhammad Akram Khan Meenakhel, Advocate, younger brother of Justice Shahnawaz Khan Meenakhel. Was elected MPA, Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa Assembly, Minister for Excise and Taxation in Arbab Jahangir, s Cabinet (1985–88)
Ayub Khan Marwat is Meenakhel by origin. He is younger son of Justice Shah Nawaz Khan, Meenakhel and is presently working as District & Session Judge D. I Khan. He also worked as Special Judge, Anti-Terrorist Court.
Lt. Col. Zafar Iqbal Marwat s/o Abeed Ullah Jan Khan is commanding a prestigious Armed Regiment of Pakistan Army.
Umar Farooq Marwat s/o Abeed Ullah Jan is a renewed Telecom Engineer working for Nokia Siemens Networks, Germany.
Shahid Nawaz Marwat s/o (L) Tariq Hamayun Marwat is heading a leading construction and property business in NWFP & Punjab.
Jamil Nawaz Marwat s/o Abeed Ullah Jan is a Social Worker & Vice Chaiman of leading business of Peshawar.
Imran Khan Marwat s/o Abeed Ullah Jan is a Software Engineer working for Nokia Siemens Networks, Pakistan.
Fareedullah Khan Meenakhel, Advocate. Son of ATTAULLAH KHAN MEENAKHEL (Rtd)SP, formerly CHAIRMAN Khidmat Committee Lakki presently Tehsil Nazim Lakki Marwat.
Professor Abul Ghaffar Khan Marwat, Meenakhel (1935–2008), ISLAMIA COLLEGE Peshawar, Chiraman & Head of the Chemistry Department, Provost Islamia College Peshawar.
Dr. Tariq Saleem Marwat - belongs to the Meenakhel clan of Marwat Tribe. Founder Chairman of the "Flag Society of Pakistan" . Has Authored two books Bacha Saqqa - the Bandit King of Afghanistan" and a collection of Urdu Poetry RAZ . Has also compiled a monograph / Research work on the MARWAT TRIBE, with the name Kaarwaan-e-Marwat (Un-Published). An ardent book lover and avid reader (bibliomaniac), owing a beautiful and precious / valuable Library MAKHZAN at his ancestral Raees-Khana with a formidable collection of antique weapons, old photos and other interesting and worth seeing artifacts.
Arifullah Khan is meenakhel by origin and was District Naib Nazim Lakki Marwat.
Abdur Rasheed Khan Marwat is Meenakhel by origin and is currently working as SP Traffic Police, Peshawar.
Asif Kamal Marwat is Meenakhel by origin. He is the elder son of Muhammad Yousaf Khan and presently working as Excise & Taxiation Officer, Shangla
Rauf Kamal Marwat is Meenakhel by origin. He is the younger son of Muhammad Yousaf Khan and presently working as a Social Worker and give his maximum of time to Politics and presently working as a chairman NATIONAL PEACE COUNCIL FOR INTERFAITH HARMONY.
Khan Ghulam Daud Khan is Meenakhel by origin and he was Deputy Commissioner DC.
Ibrahim Kamal Khan Marwat (Born: 1939 Died: 14-July-1985)is Meenakhel by origin and first appointed as Naib Tehsildar then remained Assistant Political Agent APA of Khyber Agency & Aurakzai Agency after that he remained Extra Assistant Commissioner EAC at Kohat.
Dr. Ishtaiq Ahmad Khan Marwat also belongs to the Meenakhel clan. He is currently DIG (Investigation) Peshawar region.
Waheed Khan Marwat is Meenakhel by origin and currently working as a DC custom (SINDH).
Waris Kamal Khan Marwat is Meenakhel by origin and at present SP Railway, Peshawar.
Muhammad Younas Khan Marwat also belongs to MEENAKHEL clan, was a former Chairman Area Electricity Board Peshawar
Salman Saleem Marwat, Student Leader (Peoples Student Fedration ) (Govt. Post G. Collage, Lakki Marwat)
Hyat Family
- Prominent figures of the Hyat Family:
Nawab Muhammad Hyat Khan
Nawab Aslam Hyat Khan
Nawab Muzaffar-Ali-Khan
Nawab Ghulam Khan
Nawab Ghulab Khan
Sardar Masood Hyat
Sardar Sir Liaquat Hyat Khan - served as Prime Minister of Patiala State in India & prior to that as Home Minister.
Sardar Sikander Hyat Khan - served as Prime Minister of United Punjab in pre-partitioned India.
General Ahsan Hayat
Nawab Aslam Hyat Khan
Nawab Muzaffar-Ali-Khan
Nawab Ghulam Khan
Nawab Ghulab Khan
Sardar Masood Hyat
Sardar Sir Liaquat Hyat Khan - served as Prime Minister of Patiala State in India & prior to that as Home Minister.
Sardar Sikander Hyat Khan - served as Prime Minister of United Punjab in pre-partitioned India.
General Ahsan Hayat
Junejo Family
The members of Junejo family (Urdu: خاندان جونیجو) in politics:
Raees-Ul-Muhajireen Barrister Jan Muhammad Junejo - Leader of the Khilafat Tehreek.
Khan Bahadur Mohammad Hayat Junejo
Ghulam Rasool Junejo - Former District Council Chairman, Tharparker
Mohammad Khan Junejo Former Prime Minister of Pakistan
Jam Sadiq Ali - Former Chief Minister Sindh
Sarfaraz Ali Junejo- Taluka Nazim Sindhri, Mirpurkhas
Chakar Ali Khan Junejo - Former Ambassador MPA
Shahnawaz Khan Junejo - Former Federal Minister, MNA and Senator
Roshan Junejo - MNA
