Benazir Bhutto’s 2nd Term (1993–1996) | Pakistan Politics

Benazir Bhutto’s Second Term (1993–1996): Political Return, Internal Struggles & Regional Challenges

Link to Previous Era: For background, read the article on Nawaz Sharif’s First Term (1990–1993).

After Nawaz Sharif’s first government was dissolved on 18 April 1993 by President Ghulam Ishaq Khan using Article 58(2)(b), tensions escalated. Although the Supreme Court reinstated Nawaz Sharif’s government on 24 May 1993, a national crisis followed. Eventually, a historic meeting at Army House took place where Army Chief, Ghulam Ishaq Khan, Nawaz Sharif and Benazir Bhutto agreed to step down. This led to the appointment of caretaker Prime Minister Moeen Qureshi.

Moeen Qureshi introduced major reforms during his brief 90-day tenure: publishing a list of loan defaulters, expanding the tax net to include previously exempt sectors, and increasing foreign reserves. The general elections were held on 18 October 1993, with the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) winning 89 seats and PML-N securing 73 seats. Benazir Bhutto formed a coalition government and returned as Prime Minister.

Internal Party Conflicts and Power Struggles

Benazir Bhutto’s second term was marked by intense internal political challenges. Her ideological rift with her brother Mir Murtaza Bhutto widened, as he believed in armed resistance to avenge their father Zulfikar Ali Bhutto's execution. Meanwhile, Benazir advocated democratic struggle. This conflict peaked when Murtaza was killed in a controversial police encounter in 1996, an incident that severely damaged the PPP’s reputation. Benazir’s own mother, Nusrat Bhutto, accused Benazir and Asif Ali Zardari of being responsible, deepening the internal family crisis.

Operation Khalafat & the Malakand Crisis

During Benazir’s tenure, the military initiated Operation Khalafat, a controversial effort aimed at curbing rising extremism and enforcing morality in society. The operation targeted madrassas and radical elements in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (then NWFP), but it faced significant backlash from religious groups. Meanwhile, the Malakand division came under the influence of the Tehrik-e-Nifaz-e-Shariat-e-Mohammadi (TNSM), demanding Sharia law enforcement, creating a major law-and-order issue. The PPP government faced difficulties in controlling the region, highlighting its weak internal security structure.

Afghan Policy and Taliban’s Rise

Benazir Bhutto’s second term coincided with the rise of the Taliban in Afghanistan. Pakistan was accused of supporting the Taliban regime in Kabul, with critics arguing that elements within the establishment provided covert assistance. Although Benazir tried to manage international relations delicately, Pakistan’s image in the West suffered due to its perceived alignment with religious militancy. The fallout included concerns from the U.S. and sanctions-related threats.

Opposition Pressure & Nawaz Sharif’s Tahreek-e-Nijaat

Meanwhile, Nawaz Sharif launched the Tahreek-e-Nijaat (Movement for Salvation), a countrywide protest campaign aimed at destabilizing Benazir’s government. However, a report by the Washington Post during this period revealed Nawaz’s past allegations about ISI and military officials being involved in heroin smuggling, which weakened his credibility and the movement’s impact.

Asif Ali Zardari & Corruption Allegations

Benazir’s government came under immense pressure due to increasing allegations of corruption against her husband Asif Ali Zardari, popularly dubbed “Mr. 10 Percent.” Reports of kickbacks in government deals and favoritism dented the PPP’s public image. These corruption allegations would later serve as a basis for the dismissal of Benazir’s government.

Governance Achievements

• Established Women Police Stations and promoted gender-inclusive reforms.
• Introduced the Lady Health Worker Program to improve rural healthcare.
• Initiated women-only banks and proposed women’s courts.
• Managed partial easing of U.S. sanctions through diplomatic outreach.

Collapse of Government

Despite governance achievements, Benazir failed to deliver on her agreement with President Farooq Leghari regarding repealing Article 58(2)(b). Increasing nepotism, ongoing scandals, and Murtaza Bhutto’s assassination created a public perception of lawlessness and political manipulation. On 5 November 1996, President Leghari dismissed Benazir’s government citing corruption and failure to maintain law and order.

Conclusion

Benazir Bhutto’s second term was a mix of ambition and adversity. Her efforts in gender reform and governance were overshadowed by internal political feuds, growing extremism, and allegations of corruption. The term ended in political controversy, setting the stage for another power transition in Pakistan’s complex democratic journey.

Next Era: For continuation, read the next article on Nawaz Sharif’s Second Term (1997–1999).

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