Serious Damage
Serious Damage: In just two years, the current hybrid government has created serious problems. Many people believe it came to power through a questionable electoral mandate. We can judge its performance by looking at politics, the economy, security, and foreign policy. Its policies shape the results in these areas. The quality and ability of its leaders shape those policies.
Democratic Backsliding
Politically, the situation has worsened compared to many past civilian governments. The ruling party secured a two-thirds majority through controversial elections and court rulings. It extended the terms of favored election officials by passing questionable laws. Parliament now acts as a rubber stamp for the executive. It passes laws with little debate. The government has also weakened judicial processes. Authorities have jailed, sidelined, or pressured opposition leaders from PTI, BYC, and PTM through what critics call biased accountability cases.
Eroding Civil Liberties
The government has also restricted free speech and civil rights. It introduced harsh legal changes and imposed severe punishments. Courts sentenced rights activists Imaan Mazari-Hazir and Hadi Ali Chattha to 17 years in prison over social media posts. Civilian leaders now hold less power than at any time since 2002–07. These actions have damaged democratic norms and pushed the country backward.
Economic Mismanagement
The government has also struggled on the economic front. It has overseen record inflation, rising unemployment, and growing poverty. Past governments share some blame, but current leaders have worsened the crisis. They implemented tough IMF-backed reforms to stabilize the economy. However, they offered little relief to ordinary people. Inflation has slowed, but people still struggle. The government has not presented a clear plan for long-term growth. Instead of focusing on industrial development, it promotes cryptocurrency, corporate farming, mining, and remittances. Critics argue that these sectors cannot ensure strong and sustainable growth. The government has delayed key reforms in the power sector, state-owned enterprises, taxes, and tariffs. It has also faced criticism over the proposed sale of PIA and the new solar policy.
Worsening Security
The security situation has also worsened. Groups such as the TTP and BLA have increased the frequency and boldness of their attacks. These attacks have caused many deaths. The government has launched military operations, deported Afghan refugees, and restricted trade and travel. These measures have not produced lasting results against the TTP. In Balochistan, authorities have ignored political and economic grievances. They have also cracked down on peaceful protests. These actions have increased tensions.
Foreign Policy Drift
In foreign policy, the country maintains relations with both China and the United States. However, some analysts believe ties with China have slowed. China could support long-term economic growth and industrialization. At the same time, relations with the US have strengthened, especially in security matters. Critics argue that leaders again focus on short-term strategic gains instead of building a strong economic base.
Crisis of Legitimacy
Overall, the government has failed in political, economic, security, and foreign policy areas. Some reports suggest that key figures may support forming a national government. However, another new arrangement will not solve the crisis without political legitimacy. Weak leadership produces poor results. Ongoing political instability and lack of a genuine public mandate remain the core problems. Until leaders address these issues, the country will continue to face weak governance and repeated crises.
Published in Dawn,17th February 2026
