Pakistan in 1991: Light and Shadows

During 1991 Pakistan engaged simultaneously in the preservation of democracy, liberalization of its economy, and a reorientation of foreign policy. The year saw significant initiatives on all three fronts, but these encountered equally significant obstacles. The interplay of light and shadows left the people rather confused about the direction of their lives and the destiny of their country. The year really began in October 1990 with two events that continue to cast their shadows over the nation. One was the suspension of U.S. aid (October 1) and the other was the disputed national elections (October 24); the fallout from both these events largely dominated the national debate and determined the national agenda in 1991.