Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto announced early elections and held elections in March 1977. All nine opposition parties of that time formed an alliance "Pakistan National Alliance" (PNA) to compete with Pakistan People's Party (PPP). Pakistan People's Party won the elections, but the Pakistan National Alliance (PNA) launched a protest movement accusing Pakistan People's Party of rigging in the elections.
Diagram image pending upload by Admin.
Dialogues began between Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and Pakistan National Alliance to resolve the issue. These talks were still going on when General Zia- ul- Haq imposed martial law. All political parties were banned.
Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was arrested. In this way, the political scenario was completely changed. Later, Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto was sentenced to death in Nawab Muhammad Ahmad Khan murder case. Muhammad Khan Junejo became the Prime Minister through a non party based election in 1985.
Since Muhammad Khan Junejo, was a man of democratic temperament, he could not get along well with General Zia- ul- Haq. Disagreements arose between the two, which led General Muhammad Zia- ul- Haq to use his powers under Article 58- 2B of the Constitution of Pakistan to overthrow the government of Muhammad Khan Junejo and dissolve the National and Provincial Assemblies on May 29, 1988.
The reforms of General Muhammad Zia- ul- Haq are described below;
Industrial Reforms
General Muhammad Zia- ul- Haq abandoned the policies of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto and returned many industries to their owners. Cotton factories, rice and flour mills etc. were prominent among them. Investors were provided protection. Large scale industries were mostly set up in the private sector. The country's exports increased.
Agricultural Reforms
The agricultural sector was developed. Ushar was imposed on agricultural production at the rate of 10 percent in rained areas and 5 percent in canal water areas.
Educational Reforms
Islamiat and Pakistan studies were made compulsory subjects up to the graduation. Government took steps to establish separate women university. Islamic Ideology Council was reconstituted. Newspapers, radio and television were used to promote Islamic values. Steps were taken to publish error free Holy Quran. Educational Development and Adult Education Programmes were launched to increase the literacy rate in the country.
Health Reforms
A programme was launched to provide e health facilities in the country. Basic health centres were established in rural areas. The provision of medical facilities through lady health workers was also started.