Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq was a Pakistani military general and politician who served as the sixth President of Pakistan from 1978 until his death in 1988. He came to power after a military coup that overthrew the government of Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Zia's rule is noted for its emphasis on Islamic laws and policies, which significantly influenced the country's legal and social framework. During his presidency, Zia implemented various reforms, including the introduction of Islamization policies and the establishment of the Federal Shariat Court. His tenure was marked by political repression, censorship, and the controversial Afghan War, which had lasting effects on Pakistan and the region.