Abstract
Opposition alliances played an important role in political history of Pakistan. These alliances were often formed when political parties were unable to achieve their common goal. Lack of institutional process in political parties was the principal reason for the formation of political alliances. These alliances were formed for the achievement of their common interests. National Democratic Front (NDF) was one such alliance formed in the early phase of Ayub Khan period when he lifted the ban from all political parties and activities. Its goal was to form a platform to raise voice against dictatorship and struggle for restoration of democracy. Its leadership included Husyen Shaheed Suhrawardy, Sheikh Mujeebur Rahman and some other leaders. Although NDF as a democratic force failed to achieve its goal, it played a significant role in the struggle against the dictatorial regime of Ayub Khan. It enkindled a ray of hope for democratic forces and paved the way for subsequent democratic movements against Ayub Khan. There is a research gap in historiography of NDF. Usually its performance has been either ignored or underrated. This article will shed some light on the role and significance of National Democratic Front in the political development of Pakistan.
