Ewans, Afghanistan: a Short History of Its People and Politics Chapter 12 Outline

* 1963, MAR 9: ***Daoud’s departure*** released Afghans from the “attentions of his security apparatus,” opening the way for a “cosmopolitan society.”

* Dr. Mohammed Yousuf

* Graduate in physics from Gottingen University (Germany).

* Upon Daoud’s departure, had been asked by the King to form a new government.

* In broadcast, announced that he had “the expectation of an increased role for private enterprise, a more liberal political system and a freer society in general.” 1

* Several aid agreements quickly achieved, renewed relations with Iran, and de-emphasis of the “Pushtoonistan” issue.

* A new constitution!!! Approved by the loyal jirga within 14 days of convening.

* 1963, MAR: 7 man constitutional committee formed assisted by a French constitutional advisor.3

* 1964, SEP: “Representative” loyal jirga convened (452 elected members, 4 women), “the level of oratory was often impressive.”

* Controversy, centered on the role of the royal family and the nature of the judicial system, arises between the rural traditionalists and the urbanized educated sections of Afghan society.

* The royal family would consist solely of descendants of Nadir Shah,

* A provision targeting Daoud added requiring that the royal family “not participate in political parties.”

* Modernists won the fight for secular legal system “within an overall Islamic context.”

* Ultimately traditionalists accepted compromise to prevent the return of Daoud, protection from corrupt provincial legal, administrative, and police authorities, and realization that their participation was critical in preventing power from shifting permanently to the “modern sector.”5

* Established bicameral parliament, the Shura, with elected 216 member lower house, the Wolesi Jirga, and partly appointed 84 member upper house, the Meshrano Jirga.

* 1964, OCT 1: Constitution goes into effect with the...