Re: Returning to democracy: How?
HZ,
I understand your concerns, I share your concerns. But backing away from tough decisions only weakens the democratic fabric of a society. Now it has been Pakistan's misfortune that (a) its elected leaders have been corrupt and (b) its Generals have developed a taste for power. I do not doubt that initially the Army saw itself as a last resort, but now it seems to regard itself as a legitimate political party.
Of your 3 concerns, a solution to (1) would be to have external monitors. The EU perhaps, or even the US. Someone to verify that so far as is possible, these have been free and fair elections. I understand this is hard in a nation where 45% of people cannot read, but India has shown that widespread illiteracy need not be a block to democratic politics.
On (2), Captain suggested we adopt the US model. No one can hold office for more then 2 terms. It's a fair provisio, and seems a fix.
Now on your final point, it seems you share my fear about the rationality of the Pakistani population. Now I espoused fear of Islamists gaining power and turning back the situation in Pakistan (which is still far from ideal in terms of freedom, women's rights etc) by centuries with there outdated fairy tales. Cap1 seems to suggest that if that's the choice, let it be.
Now in terms of ideals, he's right....if you win a popular mandate, you establish the government. But just as Hitler won elections to come into power, and then set about dismantling the machinary of state, I fear our religious idiots would undertake a similar move. Sharia-rizing the political system and confining all but the most zealous of people into a cave-man like situation.
You are free to make your own call, but I am sure you agree that for democracy to survive, balances against rabid Islamism are required.