Fact Check: Pakistan's Defence Minister Admits Military Holds Major Power in Governance
What We Know
Recently, Pakistan's Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, made headlines by acknowledging the existence of a "hybrid model" of governance in Pakistan, where the military retains significant influence over civilian affairs. In an interview, Asif stated, "This is a hybrid model. It’s not an ideal democratic government" and emphasized that this arrangement is a "practical necessity" until the country resolves its economic and governance challenges (News18). This admission marks a notable departure from the traditional narrative that seeks to portray the military's role as purely supportive of civilian governance.
Asif's comments were made during an interview with Arab News and have been interpreted as an acknowledgment of the military's substantial role in the political landscape of Pakistan, which has historically been characterized by military coups and interventions (Hindustan Times). Analysts have criticized this hybrid model as a "fixed government to serve subsidiary interests," suggesting that it undermines genuine democratic processes (News18).
Analysis
Khawaja Asif's admission is significant as it openly acknowledges the military's power in a country where such discussions have often been taboo. His remarks suggest a pragmatic acceptance of the military's role in governance, which he argues is necessary for stability. This perspective is echoed by political analysts who view the current arrangement as a continuation of a long-standing pattern in Pakistan's political history, where civilian governments often operate under the military's shadow (Hindustan Times).
Critics, including political analysts and journalists, have pointed out that Asif's comments reflect a troubling reality for Pakistan's democratic institutions. Dr. Rasul Bakhsh Rais, a political analyst, noted that the current setup represents the third iteration of a hybrid regime since the ousting of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in 2022, indicating a systemic issue rather than a temporary arrangement (News18). Furthermore, senior journalist Matiullah Jan criticized Asif's remarks as a "fall from grace," arguing that they contradict the constitutional principles that govern Pakistan (Hindustan Times).
The reliability of the sources reporting on this issue is generally high, with established news organizations like News18 and Hindustan Times providing detailed accounts of Asif's statements and the political context surrounding them. However, as with any political commentary, it is essential to consider potential biases and the broader implications of such admissions on public perception and governance in Pakistan.
Conclusion
The claim that "Pakistan's Defence Minister admits military holds major power in governance" is True. Khawaja Asif's statements clearly indicate that the military's influence is acknowledged at the highest levels of government, framing it as a necessary component of the current governance model. This admission aligns with historical patterns of civil-military relations in Pakistan and raises concerns about the future of democratic governance in the country.
