Throughout muslim history, from the ideal examples, there was no such thing as a "civilian" leader. Jinnah as an exception was able to craft a nation for the Muslims of India, based on the circumstances of that era, and the situation of the Muslims in India. A political, ideological, and intellectual battle was waged to create Pakistan. However Jinnah himself acknowledged, that his role in the nation is limited based on his capacity and expertise, comparing his contribution, and the contributions of the early leaders of Pakistan, to the Makkan era of our Prophet (May peace and blessings be upon him).
The new leadership of Pakistan, must be very well versed in adversity, in tension, and yes WAR. The new leadership of Pakistan, must have the capacity to handle the trials that will come at it. Pakistan needs a warrior; not a bookworm, not a businessman, not a lawyer, not a doctor, not a sportsman, not an actor, and definitely not a thief as a leader. This is our Madani era, we need to a leader to rise to the challenges that are about to come.
Although not perfect, General Zia and General Ayub stand out as a 100 times better then Zardari, Imran, or Sharif. Even Musharraf, a man whos era was plagued with many problems, did enough to keep the country from becoming another Iraq. Had a civilian leader been in place, especially a contemporary one, we may not have a Pakistan today.
If Pakistanis, their military, their leaders do not want to learn, they will be forced to learn from adversity and bloodshed. I hope that they take the little time they have left to turn things around, but time is running out.