Pakistan Under Nawaz Sharif 1990-1993

This second volume in veteran journalist Najam Sethi’s series dives into Pakistan’s turbulent democratic journey from 1988 to 2021, following decades of authoritarian rule under Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto (1972-1977) and General Zia-ul-Haq’s dictatorship (1977-1988). Focusing on Nawaz Sharif’s first term (1990-1993), Sethi’s sharp wit and fearless analysis unpack the era’s chaos through nearly 200 articles, commentaries, and reports.

The book exposes the dark humor and harsh realities of a democracy in crisis: a justice system bending to power, elections marred by fraud, and the toxic blend of religion and politics. Sethi tackles everything from state-sponsored violence and press censorship to failed reforms like privatization and nuclear negotiations with the U.S. He dissects Sharif’s rise, the military’s shadow over governance, and the bitter rivalry with Benazir Bhutto, while shedding light on broader issues like Afghanistan’s collapse, India-Pakistan tensions, and the dangerous rise of extremism.

With biting sarcasm and deep insight, Sethi reveals how institutions crumbled, leaders prioritized power over people, and ordinary citizens paid the price. From the “law of necessity” justifying authoritarianism to the tragic death of General Asif Nawaz, this volume is a gripping chronicle of a nation struggling to reconcile democracy with deep-rooted corruption and inequality. Essential for anyone seeking to understand Pakistan’s political turmoil-and the human stories behind the headlines.

PAGES: 644
AUTHOR: Najam Sethi
FORMAT:Hardback