This is a unique insider account of the role of Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto in the most critical decade in the history of Pakistan. It describes Bhutto’s remarkable rise to power, four years after forming the Pakistan People’s Party in December 1967. it examines the fall of President Ayub Khan, the 1970 general elections, the breakdown of negotiations between East and West Pakistan, what transpired at the UN Security Council in December 1971, and the creation of Bangladesh. Bhutto’s five ad a half years’ rule is analyzed in detail. All important aspects of constitution-making, economic reforms, domestic and foreign policy issues are covered, with emphasis on the 1973 Constitution, the Simla Summit and relations with the United States. It sets out objectively, and in proper perspective, Bhutto’s successes and failures. It describes the March 1977 general elections which led to Bhutto’s fall four months later, and his subsequent execution in April 1979.

Contents:

1. Origin and Growth of the PPP: 167-9 / 2. 1970 General Elections / 3. Post-Elections to Military Action / 4. Civil War to Transfer of Power /  5. Civilian Martial law / 6. Constitution-Making and the 1973 Constitution / 7. Foreign Affairs / 8. Domestic Affairs / 9. Fateful 1977 General Elections / 10. With Hindsight