BREAKING THE SHACKLES — NOW OR NEVER

It won’t be an exaggeration if we say that the military is the only true power center in Pakistan that has strong control over politics using judiciary and administration on 'as and when required' basis. It effectively controls media to maintain favourable discourse and to control the information. It successfully runs its enterprises autonomously with 'acquired' privileges. These additional facilitations, perks and privileges help in eliminating the competition in the market. Elimination of the competition in the market leads to military's monopolistic and cartel-like position in certain cases, causing a huge damage to the economy. It uses every possible tool, method and technique to maintain its dominance and control.

To peacefully end military dominance, control, and intervention in politics and power in Pakistan will require a multi-pronged approach that includes constitutional reforms, legal measures, political strategy, and the strengthening of democratic institutions. By doing so, we can build a better democratic and stable political environment that is conducive to human rights, freedoms, and progress. We can learn from Turkey's experience as they did the same for the very same purpose.

The first step would be to revise the constitution to clearly define the role and responsibilities of the military in the political system. The constitution must ensure that the military cannot interfere in the political process and that its personnel are held accountable for any violation(s).

The second step would be to pass laws that prohibit the military from interfering in politics and the administration of the country. These laws should provide clear penalties for military personnel who engage in political activities, and make it easier to prosecute those who violate the law. Additionally, the independence of the judiciary must be ensured, so that it is less susceptible to military influence.

Building a strong political consensus around limiting military dominance will be a critical part. This will require politicians to work together and build coalitions that can push back against military influence. Media must play a more critical role in holding the military accountable, and civil society groups must be empowered to act as watchdogs to ensure that military personnel respect the law and human rights.

It would be important to build and strengthen democratic institutions that can help to counter military dominance. Moreover, it will be important to create centers of democratic power that can serve as counterweights to the military, such as an independent and robust judiciary, an accountable and transparent government bureaucracy, and a vibrant and engaged civil society.

 However, an even bigger question arises here. How all this will be done?

Hassan Saleem Awan

February 09, 2023