Examining the Dynamics of Political Co-Option under Ayub Khan's Regime

Abstract

Military in Pakistan is the most autonomous political actor capable of influencing
political change. This study endeavors the patterns of military co-option in Pakistan
with the objectives of understanding its dynamics, its impact on the polity and military
itself. It also examines the techniques adopted by military regimes of General Ayub and
the work of political influence by the military dictators from the sidelines and the
problems of the different political parties that alliances with military regime. This
article focuses on discussing the politics of co-option under Ayub khan Regime. This
study also explores significant nature and dynamics of politics of co-option and the
reasons behind adopting the politics of co-option by the military regimes. This study
also helps political actors, policy makers, military regimes, and legislators in
understanding the deep advantages and disadvantages of politics of co-option to
formulate better policies as a result. This work deals with politics of co-option under
military regimes in Pakistan. So, this study is an attempt to fill this gap. As a pioneer
study it paves the way and facilitates future researchers to develop new research
models for the understanding of issues related to politics of co-option.