Family Affairs

David Guttenfelder / AP

Bhutto prays in Larkana, Pakistan, at the grave of her father, a former President and Prime Minister

In recent months, a wave of political agitation has swept much of Asia, crashing through Pakistan, Bangladesh, Burma and even normally placid Japan, where popular anger buried the Liberal Democratic Party in upper house elections. In all these countries, the public has demanded more keys to power — free votes, and transparent and responsive politicians. Instead, they are getting keys to time machines. Despite these calls for change, Asia's political classes are responding by regurgitating the same tired faces.

Dynasties still dominate Asia's political life, and, in doing so, stand squarely in the way...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!