The Role of Political Dynasties in Pakistani Democracy: A Comparative Study of Bhutto, And Sharif, Families

Abstract

Pakistan Political dynasties deeply impact the course of democracy as they have outright rule over politics as well as governance systems. This study does a comparative analysis of two political families which are the Sharifs (PML-N) and Bhuttos (PPP) focusing on their specific political activities and strategies as well as dominance over elections and governance. This research was conducted using qualitative approaches such as historical institutionalism and comparative case study analysis which allowed the study to determine the extent that dynastic politics have impacted Pakistan’s political democracy by restructuring organizational party systems, redefining norms of political accountability, and instilling new frameworks of governance. The study demonstrates Pakistan’s prevailing conflicts between continuous rule by elites and attempts at democratic advancement focusing on the decline of institutions, governing by individuals instead of collectives, and the monopolization of state functions and resources. These outcomes enrich broader theoretical discussions concerning the sequence of political succession in post-colonial countries, the endurance of elite networks in transitional democracies, and the stalling of democracy in a hybrid system characterized by clientelism. The study reveals the enduring reach of politics rooted in family lineage and exposes the restrictions imposed on the democratization process in Pakistan.