Another Coup Brewing In Pakistan? Asim Munir's Close Aide Sparks Fresh Alarm

Islamabad: The discussion of military intervention has once again intensified in the corridors of power in Pakistan. Field Marshal Asim Munir, considered the most powerful military officer of the country, is continuously expanding his role. His grip is said to be strong on important matters ranging from strategic nuclear command to influence on the three armies and internal security. Meanwhile, a statement by Pakistan Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi has further fuelled speculations about a possible military coup or martial law.

Is there a hint of military rule again in Pakistan?

Pakistan's current system has long been seen as a 'hybrid regime', where elections and civilian government exist, but the military retains influence over many important decisions. According to the report, despite the government of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the role of the military establishment based in Rawalpindi has increased significantly in important decisions related to diplomacy, internal security and administration. For this reason Asim Munir is being described as the real power center of Pakistan.

Why did Mohsin Naqvi's 'system collapse' statement create a stir?

Home Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who is considered close to Asim Munir, said in a public programme that Pakistan's governance system has effectively 'collapsed' and the country can no longer move forward in a normal manner. He did not directly demand military rule, but given his position and closeness to the military leadership, this statement was considered quite significant.

Pakistani writer and Dawn columnist Yusuf Nazar also said that Naqvi's statement cannot be seen in isolation from the role of the military establishment and especially Asim Munir. According to him, due to the huge responsibilities that Munir has taken in his hands, the responsibility for the current situation of the country has also fallen on his shoulders.

Have such military coups happened before in Pakistan?

In the history of Pakistan, the army has directly captured power many times. Ayub Khan in 1958, General Zia-ul-Haq in 1977 and General Pervez Musharraf in 1999 took power by removing elected governments. In 1969, Yahya Khan also took command of military rule.

However, there has also been another method of military intervention, which is called 'soft coup'. In this, the constitution and parliament formally remain intact, elections are also held, but the army has a decisive influence on foreign policy, nuclear command, internal security and important political decisions.

Is Asim Munir preparing to impose martial law?

There is no definite answer to this question yet. The report also said that it is not possible to say with certainty whether Munir is actually taking Pakistan directly towards military rule or not. However, some Pakistani observers and experts believe that it is important to keep an eye on recent developments.

Retired Indian Army officer Major General CM Seth described Naqvi's statement as a possible sign of major political change in Pakistan and estimated that Munir can take power in the country and declare martial law. Although he called it his assessment, he did not present it as a confirmed plan.

Is a new political structure being prepared in Pakistan?

Former Pakistani Army officer and YouTuber Adil Raja claimed that the military leadership is planning to change the existing political system. He claimed that Naqvi has been given the responsibility of gathering political support for this. However, these claims are based on purported sources and have not been independently verified.

At present, Asim Munir's increasing power in Pakistan and his statement regarding the 'collapse of the system' of the government has sparked a new debate in political circles. In the coming days, it will become clear whether the military establishment maintains influence from behind the scenes or the country moves directly towards military rule.