Role of the military

Many people think Asif Ali Zardari is not a good president but the way he is demonised suggests an ulterior motive.

NEW YORK, USA: In the new power game in Pakistan, it seems that the judiciary, the military and sections of the media are on the same side and they seem to be working against the PPP-led civilian government. I know many people think that Asif Ali Zardari is not a good president but the way he is demonised – in a manner that seems disproportionate when compared to his actions – suggests an ulterior motive and hidden hands. Going by Pakistan’s past, it would be fair to say that this is being done to delegitimise the democratic setup and prepare the ground for another military takeover. If not that, then at least keep the civilian government on the defensive all the time.

Even if a president or a prime minister is seen as being corrupt, in a democracy one waits for the next election. And then wait for the electorate to give its verdict. How many in the media have questioned the recent visit of the army chief to Afghanistan and the UAE? Will the army slash its budget or its benefits to help flood victims? Will they tone down their hawkish stance against India so that they can devote more resources to those left homeless? Will anything be done to quicken the trial of the Lashkar-e-Taiba men accused of involvement in the Mumbai attacks? And finally, with the Pakistani military allow cheaper imports from next-door India given that if this were to happen it would be a boon for many Pakistanis?

The threat perception in Pakistan about India is manufactured and not real. The fact is that the army wants to keep on ruling Pakistan.

Published in The Express Tribune, August 15^th, 2010.