Bhutto claims success for his economic policies. …

Years: 1976 - 1976

Bhutto claims success for his economic policies.

The gross national product and the rate of economic growth climb.

Inflation falls from 25 percent in fiscal year 1972 to 6 percent in FY 1976, although other economic measures he introduced do not perform as well.

Although economic realities and the shortage of capital diminish Bhutto's initial zeal, he attempts to refurbish his populist image with another spate of nationalizations in 1976.

A white paper on defense issued in 1976 firmly subordinates the armed forces to civilian control and gives Bhutto the decisive voice in all matters relating to national security.

In that role, Bhutto takes credit for bringing home more than 90,000 prisoners of war, without allowing any of them to come to trial in Bangladesh for war crimes.

Bhutto replaces Tikka Khan, whose term had expired, with General Mohammad Zia ul-Haq as chief of staff of the army.

Like Ayub Khan, Zia is appointed over several generals that are more senior.

Also like Ayub Khan, Zia comes from a community not heavily represented in the armed forces (the Arains from Punjab) and is thought to be without political ambition.

Pakistan and …

Related Events

Filter results