Ayub Khan
Ayub Khan
Ayub Khan
Ans. Class difference created by Ayub Khan’s economic policies eventually led to his downfall. The
creation of new wealth was concentrated in few hands. It was revealed that only 22 families controlled 66%
of the industrial assets as well as 80% of the banking and insurance companies. Unsurprisingly, the fact that
most of these families were located in WP angered EP. So a small group of wealthy elite class had almost
complete control of Pakistan’s wealth. Such economic drawbacks resulted in Ayub’s resignation.
Secondly, the celebration of Decade of development also served as an important reason for Ayub’s downfall.
It provided opportunity for various disgruntled elements to rise against Ayub. Widespread protest and riots
led to major political crisis for Ayub, not only students protest erupted in WP in Oct 1968, but also his visit to
Peshawar was marred with assassination. This agitation in both the wings paved the way for his resignation.
Thirdly, opposition by political parties and resignation of Basic democrats led to his downfall. In Jan 1969,
eight opposition parties united to form Democratic Action Committee, who demanded proper election, lifting
up of emergency powers and greater provincial autonomy for EP. Though, Ayub did made attempts of
negotiation and pacifying them, but he had done too little, too late. Soon, large number of Basic democrats
resigned and so it was impossible to replace them. Finally, on 25 March 1969, he resigned.