Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif Backs Army Chief Munir to Safeguard Political Survival

Pakistan PM Shehbaz Sharif’s recent speeches reflect a noticeable change—he is supporting Army Chief General Asim Munir to safeguard his place in Pakistan’s military-driven political hierarchy. Sources claim that such support is based on self-defense, not strategic thinking against India, but that of self-protection. In parroting the military’s hardline after India’s Operation Sindoor, PM Sharif remains safe from criticism and presents the image of harmony.

This action protects him from future coups and diverts public attention away from economic disappointments to outside threats. With the army under internal pressure in the form of the Baloch insurgency and TTP militancy, PM Sharif’s allegiance also assists Asim Munir in solidifying his hold on power, even as civilian rule remains in decline.

Military’s Hold on Pakistan’s Leadership

For decades, Pakistan’s military has dictated the national security and foreign policy of Pakistan, particularly in matters such as India, Afghanistan, and anti-terrorism. Governments are unable to survive without endorsement from the military. This confluence is essential for political figures such as PM Sharif, who have to contend with asserting civilian control while adapting to military predominance.

By amplifying General Asim Munir’s position, PM Sharif not only conveys unity during times of crisis, but also indicates obedience to remain in power. His public support for Asim Munir’s account, presenting the military as the protector of national security, distracts from Pakistan’s worsening economic and governance challenges.

Political Strategy: National and International Tensions

PM Shehbaz Sharif’s recent address came after India’s Operation Sindoor, which struck terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). PM Sharif, in his speech, echoed the call for retaliation by the military.

Though this is consistent with the stand of the military, it has a political agenda as well: presenting Pakistan as a victim of aggression. This is an attempt to garner international sympathy and divert attention from domestic issues, like the economy and governance failures.

PM Sharif’s stance is based on history. His brother Nawaz Sharif was overthrown in 1999 for going against the military’s rule during the Kargil war. This incident demonstrated the military’s authority to oust civilian governments that go against its will. Conscious of this history, PM Shehbaz Sharif is going safe by being obedient to the military.

Internal Military Issues and Sharif’s Calculated Obedience

PM Sharif’s endorsement of General Asim Munir consolidates the army chief’s power, particularly since the military is struggling with internal problems, including Balochistan insurgencies and militancy by the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). Through his alignment with Asim Munir, PM Sharif serves to consolidate the military’s power and prevent the destabilization that his brother experienced in 1999.

PM Shehbaz Sharif’s political survival is highly dependent on the support of the military. His tactic of endorsing General Munir and bolstering the military narrative enhances the army’s hold on Pakistan’s political arena. Though this guarantees Sharif’s immediate survival, it poses questions about the future of civilian rule in the nation.