February 19, 2025
Ruling by the Unfit, for the Unfit: Pakistan’s Kakistocratic Democracy
“Democracy is the art and science of running the circus from the monkey cage.” – H.L. Mencken Pakistan has a troubled track record of democracy. Pakistan’s political landscape, where governance is often in the hands of the least qualified. Pakistan’s democracy, rather than functioning as an instrument of public representation and accountability, has largely evolved into a kakistocracy—rule by the most incompetent and self-serving individuals. Political dynasties, military dominance, rampant corruption, legal manipulation, and electoral fraud have collectively undermined democratic ideals, leaving the country in a perpetual state of governance crisis. One of the defining features of Pakistan’s political system
