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Pakistan’s Military Tightens Grip: A New Era of Power Consolidation

Source: Pakistan’s army chief consolidates power, advancing a cycle of military rule (2025-11-26)

Pakistan’s military leadership, led by the army chief, is increasingly consolidating power, signaling a significant shift toward prolonged military influence in the country’s political landscape. This development marks a continuation of a cycle of military rule that has historically oscillated with civilian governments, raising concerns about democratic stability and civilian-military relations. Recent reports indicate that the army chief has taken steps to strengthen military institutions, influence political appointments, and assert control over key national security decisions. This move comes amid ongoing political instability, economic challenges, and regional tensions, particularly with neighboring India and Afghanistan. In the broader context, Pakistan’s military has historically played a pivotal role in governance since independence in 1947, often intervening during times of political crisis. The current trend suggests a possible return to a more overt military dominance, which could impact democratic reforms and civilian oversight. Experts warn that such a shift may undermine civilian institutions, weaken democratic accountability, and lead to increased military involvement in policymaking. Recent facts that deepen understanding of this situation include: 1. The Pakistani military controls significant portions of the economy, including key industries such as telecommunications, banking, and manufacturing, which bolsters its influence beyond defense. 2. The army chief’s recent moves include appointing loyalists to critical government positions, indicating a strategic effort to embed military interests within civilian governance. 3. Pakistan’s judiciary and political parties have historically had complex relationships with the military, often aligning or opposing military influence depending on the context. 4. The country faces ongoing security threats from insurgent groups and regional conflicts, which the military justifies as reasons for increased control over national security policies. 5. International actors, including the United States and China, are closely monitoring Pakistan’s military developments, given their implications for regional stability and global security. This evolving power dynamic raises important questions about Pakistan’s future trajectory—whether it will stabilize as a democratic nation with civilian supremacy or continue down a path of military dominance. Experts emphasize the importance of transparent civilian oversight, adherence to democratic principles, and regional diplomacy to ensure stability. Civil society organizations and international partners are calling for balanced governance that respects democratic norms while addressing security concerns. As Pakistan navigates this complex landscape, the world watches closely, recognizing that the country’s internal stability has profound implications for regional peace and global security. In conclusion, Pakistan’s military chief’s recent actions mark a significant moment in the country’s political history, potentially shaping its democratic future for years to come. The international community’s response, coupled with internal political resilience, will be crucial in determining whether Pakistan can balance military strength with democratic governance, ensuring stability and progress for its citizens.

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