Pakistan’s political system has long been the subject of debate, with critics alleging that the country’s military and intelligence establishment wield significant influence over governance. In this context, Pakistan Defence Minister Khawaja Asif made remarks during a parliamentary session that have drawn attention.

Speaking in the assembly, Khawaja Asif said that during the tenure of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, the military and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) exercised considerable authority. According to him, governments and political leaders often had to work in accordance with the views of the military establishment.

He stated that even matters related to legislation and implementation required the approval of the military and intelligence agencies, despite Pakistan formally functioning as a democracy. Khawaja Asif also claimed that the ISI had, at times, influenced the government to enact laws that suited its interests.

However, he emphasized that the current government works in coordination with the military and that both civilian institutions and the armed forces have a role in governance. According to him, there is now a balance between the participation of the government and that of the military establishment.

The remarks have reignited discussions about the extent of military influence in Pakistan’s political system. Observers have long debated the relationship between elected governments and the country’s powerful military and intelligence agencies.