Pakistan’s powerful military establishment is entering a new phase of heightened authority as Army Chief General Asim Munir gains expanded powers under recent security and administrative directives. Analysts say the development deepens the army’s historic influence over Pakistan’s political, economic, and foreign policy direction.
The new measures reportedly grant the army chief broader oversight of counterterrorism operations, intelligence coordination, and strategic economic interventions, including matters related to foreign investment and infrastructure security. Supporters of the move argue that Pakistan faces escalating security threats and requires a unified command structure, while critics warn that it risks further weakening civilian institutions.
For decades, Pakistan’s armed forces have played an outsized role in governance—either directly through military rule or indirectly through national security frameworks that shape key policy decisions. Political commentators say this latest shift could reshape the balance of power between the military and the elected government at a time when Pakistan is confronting rising militant activity, inflation, and tense relations with neighboring countries.
Opposition leaders have called for parliamentary scrutiny, urging transparency over the scope and justification of the army chief’s new powers. Government officials, however, insist the adjustments are necessary to protect national stability and prevent the spread of extremist violence.
International observers are watching closely, noting that the move could influence Pakistan’s diplomatic engagements, including talks with the IMF, cooperation with China under the CPEC economic corridor, and evolving security relations with the United States and Gulf partners.
Sources
Al Jazeera — analysis of Pakistan’s civil-military power dynamics
BBC News — reporting on expanded authority and political response
Dawn News — context on national security concerns and policy changes
The Guardian — international implications of army influence
Reuters — background on Pakistan’s economic and security challenges
