Islamic Democratic Alliance
Definition
The Islamic Democratic Alliance (IDA) was a coalition of Islamic and right-of-center political parties that emerged in Pakistan following the death of General Zia-ul-Haq. As a coalition, it primarily consisted of parties that favorably viewed Zia’s regime and policies. The alliance’s major constituents included the Muslim League and Jamaat-i Islami. It came into prominence by challenging the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), led by Benazir Bhutto, in the 1988 elections, and subsequently gaining power in the 1990 elections under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif.
Etymology
- Islamic: Derived from the Arabic word “إسلامي” (Islāmī), related to Islam.
- Democratic: Originating from the Greek word “δημοκρατικός” (dēmokratikos), meaning “pertaining to democracy.”
- Alliance: Coming from the Old French word “aliier” (aligner), meaning “to combine or unite.”
Arabic Translation:
- تحالف الديمقراطي الإسلامي (Taḥāluf al-Dīmuqrāṭī al-Islāmī).
Turkish Translation:
- İslami Demokratik İttifak.
Historical Context
The IDA emerged against a backdrop of significant political change and uncertainty in Pakistan. General Zia-ul-Haq’s death in a plane crash in 1988 ended his decade-long military regime, which had heavily infused Pakistan’s legal and political framework with Islamic principles. With the vacuum of national leadership, the right-of-center and Islamist factions sought to consolidate their influence by forming the IDA.
Major Parties
- Muslim League: A historic political entity in Pakistan linked to the founding of the country, the league splintered into various factions over time, with the Nawaz faction being prominent during the IDA’s formation.
- Jamaat-i Islami: Established by Abul Ala Maududi, this Islamist party aims to transform Pakistan into a theocratic state based on the Qur’an and Sunnah.
Objectives and Political Strategies
The IDA’s principal objective was to implement policies aligned with Islamic ideology while simultaneously promoting a democratic governance framework. It rallied against the socialist and secular elements of the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) and stood as an opponent to the perceived Western influences on Pakistan’s sociopolitical fabric.
Electoral History
- 1988 Elections: Despite a vigorous campaign, the IDA was defeated by the PPP under Benazir Bhutto, who became Pakistan’s first female Prime Minister.
- 1990 Elections: The IDA secured enough seats to form the government, propelling Nawaz Sharif to the Prime Minister’s office. Their tenure was marked by attempts to continue Zia’s policies alongside market reforms.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Pakistan: A Modern History” by Ian Talbot
- “The Struggle for Pakistan: A Muslim Homeland and Global Politics” by Ayesha Jalal
- “Pakistan: Between Mosque and Military” by Husain Haqqani
- “Tragedy of Errors” by Benazir Bhutto
- “Democracy in the Middle East: The Impact of Religion and Education” by Jason Brownlee
Takeaways
- The IDA represents a significant chapter in Pakistan’s political evolution post-Zia-ul-Haq.
- It demonstrates the enduring impact of Islamic ideology within Pakistani politics.
- The coalition underscores the recurrent battle between Islamic conservatism and secular progressivism in the region.
Conclusion
The Islamic Democratic Alliance (IDA) played a pivotal role in the reshaping of Pakistan’s political landscape during a critical period of transition. Formed by parties with strong Islamic leanings, the coalition both influenced and reflected the ideological tussles prevalent in Pakistani society. The rise and activities of the IDA underscore the complexities of achieving a balance between Islamic values and democratic principles in a nation deeply influenced by both its religious traditions and its quest for democratic governance.
