Ans: The Era of Government of Muhammad Khan Junejo (1985-1988):
General Zia-ul-Haq, amended 1973 constitution from parliamentary to a
presidential system. The President took complete powers and the powers of
the Parliament were curtailed. Non-party elections were held for the National
Assembly in 1985. The first session of the National Assembly was called on
23rd March, 1985. General Zia-ul-Haq took an oath as the President for the
next five years, and Muhammad Khan Junejo took an oath as the Prime
Minister.
Following are the important events of Muhammad Khan Junejo’s era.
Lifting of martial law:
General Zia-ul-Haq’s martial law had completed eight years in 1985. After
becoming Prime Minister, Muhammad Khan Junejo declared that martial law
should be lifted. Then the Parliament and Provincial Assemblies passed bills
to lift it which was done on 30th Dec. 1985.
Muhammad Khan Junejo as President of the Muslim League:
All the non-party members of the National Assembly formed an official
parliamentary group in January 1986 which was named the ‘Pakistan Muslim
League’. Muhammad Khan Junejo was elected its president. He started to
expand Muslim League membership in the entire country. The Provincial
Chief Ministers became Muslim League’s provincial presidents and its offices
were opened throughout Pakistan. Muslim League was organized as
apolitical party and its primary units started enrolment at the lower level.
Foreign tours:
The lifting of martial law and the restoration of democracy was welcomed by
the foreign world. Muhammad Khan Junejo had made successful tours to
Turkey, Germany and United States of America in 1986. Different
agreements of mutual interest were signed during these tours.
Development programmes of Muhammad Khan Junejo’s government:
Muhammad Khan Junejo’s modesty, honesty and national spirit was much
liked by the public. The 7-marla housing scheme, 5-point development
programme and plans to increase the literacy rate were appreciated which
played an important role for the development of the country.
Ojhri Camp Disaster:
A sudden fire broke out in an arms depot located between Rawalpindi and
Islamabad in 1988. Many citizens were killed in this disaster. After hectic
efforts it was brought under control. The Prime Minister was on a tour of
Sindh and the President to Kuwait. Both returned immediately to Islamabad.
The Prime Minister formed an investigation committee and its report was
presented to President Zia-ul-Haq.
The dismissal of the Junejo government:
Due to some political changes differences developed between President and
Prime Minister in 1988. After returning from foreign tour, the Prime Minister
called a press conference on 29th May, 1988 at the airport and answered the
questions of the news reporters. On the same day, the President declared
dismissal of Junejo Government and dissolution of all assemblies in a press
conference held in Army House. This is how three years’ regime of
Muhammad Khan Junejo ended.