Democracy is no substitute for governor’s rule

November 1, 2026

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has defended the imposition of governor’s rule and an emergency in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, describing the decision as necessary under extraordinary circumstances. However, no matter how serious the political or administrative situation becomes, democracy remains a better option than arrangements that suspend or weaken elected provincial governments.

Addressing a parliamentary party meeting of the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the prime minister said timely action was necessary to protect the province and its people. He argued that further delays could have caused greater damage. Shehbaz also criticised the performance of the party that has governed the province for the past 13 years, questioning its record in establishing universities and hospitals.

He said several areas, including Peshawar, Kohistan, Hazara and southern districts, continued to face serious problems. His criticism may have political merit, but poor governance alone cannot become a justification for extraordinary political arrangements. If an elected government fails to deliver, the democratic response should be accountability through parliament, elections and constitutional institutions, not the removal or suspension of its political authority.

Pakistan’s experience shows that political instability and repeated interruptions of democratic processes have weakened institutions. Democracy may be slow and difficult, but elected governments must be allowed to complete their constitutional responsibilities while remaining answerable to the people.

These are serious challenges, but they require stronger democratic institutions rather than exceptional political measures. Governor’s rule and emergency arrangements should never become convenient solutions to political disagreements or administrative failures.