The proclamation of Emergency in Pakistan by General Pervez Musharraf, though a cause of serious concern, did not take the world by surprise. Ever since the General assumed power in October, 1999, a smooth transition to democracy in Pakistan appeared challenging. A military dictator would hate to visualise the possibility of a democratic regime, which may ever hold the dictator accountable for acts done during his regime. Overthrow of elected governments was not unknown to Pakistan. Arresting and prosecuting political opponents also had its precedents. But pushing leaders of democratic parties into exile was somewhat unprecedented. How would any of these leaders once back in power respond to an erstwhile dictator? It was, therefore, logical for the General to eliminate the remote possibility of restoration of democracy. The path he has chosen is not original.

When I heard the General on the evening of November 3, 2007 addressing his country, the arguments; the logic and even the turn of phrases appeared to be identical to the language used by dictators in other countries countries who have resorted to a constitutionally empowered dictatorship.

Adolf Hitler did not command a majority in his own legislature. He used the pretext of the so-called fire in the Reichstag to proclaim a state of emergency. He assumed all powers to himself. He detained his political opponents and censored the newspapers. The composition of courts was changed and the intimidated court accepted and ratified every word of what the Fuehrer commanded. Hitler’s logic was simple - the nation had been threatened and was being destabilised. He wanted a disciplined society which would make rapid progress. To identify himself with economic progress, he announced a 25-point economic programme. The fear psychosis built around him perpetuated his personality cult. “Adolf Hitler is Germany and Germany is Adolf Hitler,” his supporters proclaimed. He claimed an achievement that even trains were running on time and people were welcoming the dictatorship due to growth and discipline. Hitler never enjoyed legislative majority. He used the emergency provisions to perpetuate a personal rule.

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