MCQ Detailed View

The second constitution of Pakistan was enforced on 1st March 1962. This constitution was introduced during the rule of President Ayub Khan, who had taken over the government after imposing martial law in 1958. The first constitution of 1956 was abrogated after the military takeover, and the country was being governed under martial law until 1962.

The 1962 constitution was written to bring back a legal and governmental system, but it introduced a different kind of political structure. Unlike the 1956 constitution, which had a parliamentary system, the 1962 constitution introduced a presidential system. In this system, more powers were given to the President, who was both the head of state and the head of government.

President Ayub Khan believed that the parliamentary system had failed and that a strong central leadership was necessary to move the country forward. This constitution also introduced the concept of Basic Democracies, where people elected local bodies, and those bodies indirectly elected the President and national representatives.

Although the constitution aimed to bring political stability and efficiency, it was also criticized for concentrating too much power in the hands of one person. It stayed in force until it was suspended again in 1969 when Ayub Khan resigned and handed power over to General Yahya Khan.

Important Facts:

• Enforced On: 1st March 1962


• Introduced By: President Ayub Khan


• System: Presidential system of government


• Replaced: Martial law after the 1956 constitution was abrogated


• Key Feature: Basic Democracies for indirect elections


• Criticism: Gave too much power to the President


• Suspended: In 1969 after Ayub Khan resignation

The 1962 Constitution played an important role in Pakistan political history. It showed a shift from a parliamentary democracy to a strong presidential system, which shaped the country governance for several years.