Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD)
The Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD) was an opposition movement formed in Pakistan in the early 1980s to protest President Zia-ul-Haq’s indefinite postponement of general elections. This protest coalition included supporters of the late Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto and members of the Pakistan National Alliance, as well as secular and religiously-oriented parties. The Jamaat-i Islami joined the movement in 1984. The coalition’s primary goals were to restore democratic elections and the political process, and to bring an end to martial law. The movement notably opposed and boycotted Zia’s 1984 Islamization program. Despite a return to civilian rule in 1986, the MRD continued to demand free elections for political parties and Zia’s resignation as army chief of staff to ensure that the president held a truly civilian role.
Etymology and Translations
- Etymology: The term “Movement for the Restoration of Democracy” is derived from the combination of “movement,” indicating an organized effort for change, “restoration,” implying a return to previous state, and “democracy,” referring to a system of government by the whole population, typically through elected representatives.
- Arabic: حركة استعادة الديمقراطية
- Turkish: Demokrasi Restorasyonu Hareketi
Historical Context
Following General Zia-ul-Haq’s coup d’état in 1977, democratic institutions were curtailed, and subsequent postponements of general elections betrayed any promises of a return to democratic governance. As discontent grew, the MRD formed as a response to the political repression and demand for democracy.
Formation and Key Groups
- Founding Groups: The MRD was founded by various political factions including the supporters of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto, the Pakistan National Alliance, and other secular and religiously aligned parties.
- Joining of Jamaat-i Islami: In 1984, the religious political party Jamaat-i Islami joined the movement, strengthening its influence.
Main Objectives
- Restoration of Democratic Elections: The movement demanded a return to the electoral and political process.
- End to Martial Law: Calling for an end to the militaristic rule imposed by Zia.
- Opposition to Islamization: The MRD boycotted Zia’s Islamization program in 1984.
- Civilian Government: Following the return to civilian rule in 1986, MRD continued to advocate for genuinely free elections and the resignation of Zia from his military role.
Impact and Legacy
The MRD’s relentless pursuit of democratic principles played a significant role in fostering political awareness and resistance against authoritarian rule in Pakistan. It laid the groundwork for future democratic movements and transitions in the country.
Suggested Books for Further Studies
- “Pakistan: Between Mosque and Military” by Husain Haqqani
- “The Struggle for Pakistan: A Muslim Homeland and Global Politics” by Ayesha Jalal
- “Pakistan: A Hard Country” by Anatol Lieven
Takeaways
- The MRD was pivotal in opposing the authoritarian rule of Zia-ul-Haq and promoting the restoration of democracy in Pakistan.
- The coalition included a diverse set of political groups, from secularists to religious parties.
- Despite the return to civilian rule, the MRD continued to demand truly democratic practices and the full disengagement of the military from politics.
Conclusion
The Movement for the Restoration of Democracy (MRD) remains a significant chapter in Pakistan’s political history, symbolizing the collective struggle for democratic governance against repressive military rule. Its legacy continues to influence contemporary political landscapes and movements within the region.
