General Zia-ul-Haq’s Era (1977–1988) – Political Islam, Afghan War & Martial Law

General Zia-ul-Haq’s Era in Pakistan (1977–1988): Islamization, War, and Political Shifts

Martial Law and Overthrow of Bhutto: On July 5, 1977, General Zia-ul-Haq overthrew Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s civilian government after allegations of rigged elections and rising civil unrest under the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA). Zia imposed Martial Law and suspended the constitution. Initially promising elections in 90 days, Zia delayed them indefinitely.

Execution of Bhutto: In 1979, Zia’s military regime convicted Bhutto in a controversial murder trial concerning the death of Nawab Mohammad Ahmad Khan Kasuri. Despite global outcry, Bhutto was hanged on April 4, 1979, in Rawalpindi, becoming the first elected leader in Pakistan's history to be executed by the state.

Islamization Policies: Zia launched a vigorous Islamization campaign. He introduced Shariah laws, established Federal Shariat Court, and made Arabic and Islamic Studies compulsory. Hudood Ordinances were enforced, setting harsh punishments for crimes like theft, adultery, and alcohol consumption. Friday was declared the weekly holiday, and prayer breaks were made mandatory in offices and institutions.

Zakat and Ushr Ordinances: In 1980, Zia introduced the Zakat and Ushr system, making deductions from bank accounts for welfare distribution. These policies, although meant to Islamize the economy, sparked discontent especially among Shia Muslims who demanded exemption.

Interest-Free Banking: Zia announced the gradual transformation of Pakistan’s banking system into an interest-free Islamic model, aiming to align the financial system with Shariah law.

Suppression of Press and Student Unions: Zia imposed strict press censorship and dissolved student unions across the country in February 1984. This ban remains in effect, stifling youth political participation for decades. Journalists were tried in military courts, and public dissent was heavily punished.

Referendum and Presidency: In December 1984, Zia held a referendum linking support for Islamization to his presidency. Official results claimed 95% support, and he was confirmed as President for five more years.

Non-Party Based Elections (1985): Zia organized general elections on a non-party basis, leading to the appointment of Muhammad Khan Junejo as Prime Minister. This created a hybrid political system under tight military control.

Amendment of Article 58(2)(b): Through the 8th Amendment in November 1985, Zia secured the authority to dissolve the National Assembly at his discretion, granting him immense executive power even post-martial law.

Dismissal of Junejo’s Government: On May 29, 1988, Zia dismissed Prime Minister Junejo’s government, citing incompetence and policy disagreements, particularly over the Geneva Accords related to Afghanistan.

Afghan War and U.S.-Saudi Involvement: After the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan in 1979, Zia aligned with the U.S. and Saudi Arabia, turning Pakistan into a base for anti-Soviet Mujahideen. The CIA and Saudi funding flowed through ISI. Pakistan received $3.2 billion in U.S. aid. This strategic cooperation strengthened Zia’s regime and brought global attention to Pakistan’s role in the Cold War.

Rise of Militancy and Drug Culture: The Afghan war had deep socio-political consequences. It introduced Kalashnikov culture, religious extremism, and narcotics into Pakistan. Heroin addiction, sectarianism, and militant training camps flourished. Osama bin Laden also entered the region during this time, laying roots for future global jihad networks.

Ojhri Camp Disaster (1988): A major explosion at a military storage site in Rawalpindi (Ojhri Camp) killed over 100 people. The incident exposed the scale of Pakistan’s arms operations during the Afghan war. Junejo’s attempt to investigate the incident is said to have angered Zia and contributed to the PM's dismissal. The U.S. publicly expressed concern but did not pursue accountability.

Pakistan’s Nuclear Development: Zia covertly advanced Pakistan’s nuclear weapons program. In February 1984, he declared that Pakistan had successfully conducted a cold test. The U.S. Congress debated sanctions but held off due to Pakistan’s role in the Afghan conflict.

Economic Performance: According to World Bank data, Pakistan’s GDP growth averaged 6.5%, manufacturing grew at 9.5%, and private investment rose to 15.3% — the highest in South Asia after China, Hong Kong, and Korea.

Death of Zia-ul-Haq: On August 17, 1988, General Zia died in a mysterious C-130 plane crash in Bahawalpur. U.S. Ambassador Arnold Raphel and General Herbert Wassom were also on board. Despite high-profile casualties, the U.S. showed limited interest in investigating the crash, fueling speculation of American involvement, especially considering Zia's Islamic policies and nuclear ambitions.

Legacy: Zia’s 11-year rule deeply altered Pakistan’s political, social, and religious landscape. While credited with economic growth and strengthening Pakistan’s global standing during the Cold War, his Islamization policies and Afghan war participation left long-term challenges — militancy, sectarianism, and erosion of democratic institutions.

Internal Link: Read about Zulfikar Ali Bhutto’s Era (1971–1977)

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