basic democracy

Pakistani history

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June 23, 2026

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Democracy, meaning "rule by the people," is a system where citizens directly or indirectly decide laws and policies. While early forms existed in tribal societies, the city-state of Athens in the 6th century BCE is credited with developing a more structured democracy. This system is generally considered superior to others as it prevents autocracy, upholds individual rights, and promotes political equality.1

In Pakistan's history, a system called "basic democracies" was introduced in 1960 by President Mohammad Ayub Khan. This involved local self-governing bodies designed to connect the government with the people, with members elected from local constituencies. Pakistan gained independence on August 14, 1947, marking the end of British rule and the creation of a homeland for Muslims of the Indian subcontinent.23

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Pakistan
Military government
…initiated a plan for “basic democracies,” consisting of rural and urban councils directly elected by the people that would be concerned with local governance and would assist in programs of grassroots development. Elections took place in January 1960, and the Basic Democrats, as they became known, were at once…
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…initiated a plan for “basic democracies,” consisting of rural and urban councils directly elected by the people that would be concerned with local governance and would assist in programs of grassroots development. Elections took place in January 1960, and the Basic Democrats, as they became known, were at once…
Read More

Mohammad Ayub Khan
Ayub introduced the system of “basic democracies” in 1960. It consisted of a network of local self-governing bodies to provide a link between the government and the people. Primary governing units were set up to conduct local affairs; their members were elected by constituencies of 800–1,000 adults. A national referendum…
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Ayub introduced the system of “basic democracies” in 1960. It consisted of a network of local self-governing bodies to provide a link between the government and the people. Primary governing units were set up to conduct local affairs; their members were elected by constituencies of 800–1,000 adults. A national referendum…
Read More