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Pak Studies History IGCSEPDF 176

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2. Nawaz Sharif’s Second Government (1997–1999) Q3: Describe Benazir Bhutto’s foreign policy between 1993 and 1996. (7 marks) and accusations of extrajudicial actions. Political and sectarian violence spread across Sindh, while tribal and religious conflicts also rose in other provinces. Her government was criticized for political interference in the police and for using state institutions against opponents. Although some temporary stability was achieved in certain areas, overall, her government failed to control violence effectively. By 1996, Pakistan was experiencing widespread insecurity, which became one of the main reasons for her dismissal. Q1: What were the main constitutional changes made by Nawaz Sharif in his second term? (7 marks) Nawaz Sharif’s second government introduced several major constitutional amendments to consolidate civilian authority. The most significant was the Thirteenth Amendment (1997), which removed the President’s power to dissolve the National Assembly, thus ending the misuse of Article 58(2)(b). The Fourteenth Amendment strengthened party discipline by preventing members of Parliament from defying party leadership during voting. Nawaz also attempted to introduce the Fifteenth Amendment, known as the Sharia Bill, which sought to make Islamic law the supreme law of Pakistan, though it was never passed. These amendments concentrated power in the hands of the Prime Minister and significantly reduced institutional checks and balances. Benazir Bhutto’s foreign policy during her second government aimed to improve Pakistan’s international image and strengthen ties with major powers. She maintained friendly relations with the United States and Western countries, emphasizing Pakistan’s role as a democratic Muslim nation. Relations with India began with cautious optimism but deteriorated over the Kashmir dispute. She worked to enhance Pakistan’s relations with China and continued close cooperation with Muslim and Gulf states, particularly Saudi Arabia. Benazir also encouraged regional cooperation through organizations like the SAARC and the OIC, presenting Pakistan as a moderate Islamic power committed to peace and development.