POLITICAL PARTIES AND POLITICAL DEVELOPMENT IN THE PUNJAB 1988-1999

Abstract

The present study seems in first instance a study of political parties i.e. stasiology ─ science of political parties (the term was initially coined by Duverger, 1978: 422) but, indeed, is a study of political development. It, in fact, wants to see the role of political parties in the process of political development in Punjab. The period under study is of special significance with a sound rationale of its relevance. This, indeed, is the only period in the political history of the area, when rightful constitutional governments were in action, with a due participation of political parties. The area under study i.e. Punjab, also has a specific significance of its own. Having the longest age of political exercise and a vast experience of modern political institutions especially that of political parties, Punjab stands the pacesetter area, not only for all the rest of provinces of Pakistan but for the centre as well.