Fact Check: Critics say PML-N's legitimacy is buried under military's influence.

Fact Check: "Critics say PML-N's legitimacy is buried under military's influence."

What We Know

The claim that the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) party's legitimacy is undermined by military influence is supported by various sources. Critics argue that the PML-N, under the leadership of Nawaz Sharif, is perceived as a subordinate to the military establishment, which has historically played a significant role in Pakistan's politics. For instance, a recent article from Brookings highlights that the PML-N government is engaged in a "zero-sum confrontation" with the opposition party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), and is actively working to suppress it, indicating a reliance on military support to maintain power.

Moreover, Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif openly stated that the PML-N's only viable option is to "compromise with the military," which has been interpreted as an admission of the military's substantial influence over civilian governance (Deccan Herald, Hindustan Times). This sentiment is echoed by critics who argue that such compromises have eroded the PML-N's earlier commitment to democratic principles, encapsulated in their slogan "vote ko izzat do" (give respect to the ballot) (The Week).

Analysis

The evidence supporting the claim comes from credible sources that analyze the political dynamics in Pakistan. The Brookings article provides a detailed account of the PML-N's actions and its relationship with the military, suggesting that the government’s focus on suppressing the PTI is indicative of its weakness and reliance on military backing (Brookings). This perspective is corroborated by statements from high-ranking officials, including Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who acknowledges the military's pivotal role in the current political landscape (Hindustan Times).

However, it is essential to consider the potential biases of these sources. Brookings is a respected think tank, but its analysis may reflect a Western perspective on Pakistan's internal politics. The Deccan Herald and Hindustan Times are established news outlets, but they may also have their own editorial slants. The claim's credibility is strengthened by the consistency of the narrative across multiple sources, indicating a broader consensus among political analysts and commentators regarding the military's influence over the PML-N.

Conclusion

The claim that "Critics say PML-N's legitimacy is buried under military's influence" is True. The evidence from various credible sources illustrates a clear pattern of military involvement in civilian governance, which has led to significant questions about the legitimacy of the PML-N's rule. The party's actions and statements from military officials support the assertion that the PML-N operates under considerable military influence, undermining its democratic legitimacy.

Fact Check: Critics say PML-N's legitimacy is buried under military's influence.