On topic: I think it's safe to say that the failure to continue Raheel Shareef's policies non-interference in politics, and crack down on terrorism, has led to an increasing deterioration of security across Pakistan. As a result, we're seeing Pakistan grow economically and geopolitically weaker as a result.
Basically, Pakistan is not where it should have been, post-operation zarb e azb. The new doctrine is a clear failure, and I won't be surprised if his successor changes course almost immediately after his departure.
Asim Munir's legacy may end up similar to some of the worst COAS in Pakistani history.
It seems, IMHO, that the current leadership is doing everything with half measures; no enthusiasm, no focus, as if though just passing the time.
The problem for the ruling class, is that they are perceived not just as self-interested, but also shortsighted and incompetent (Hanlon’s Razor).
For the state and the nation, this
gives off the impression that the country is an easy target and primed for exploitation. So it’s a failure of deterrence, as well as forces the country to undersell itself, opening it up to being globally marginalized, squandering any opportunities that come its way.
Hurting these same elites in the long run, such as Pakistan being placed in the travel ban for the US next week. Cutting off career and family opportunities for these elites even more so than most other Pakistanis.
Internally, and amongst the diaspora though, the way PTI was cracked down upon, echoing previous crackdown, attributes malious intent in the minds of many in the public, and the way the February 2024 elections went, delegitimizes the current politicians. Considering the kind of reforms that have to be imposed to right the economy, repaying debts through higher taxation and incentivizing efficiency to boost productivity, there is only the threat of force that will compel people to participate, because the apathy has set in.
So perception is very important. So I know for the sake of discipline in the ranks they wouldn’t decide to do it lightly, but the Corp commander could oust the chief and call fresh elections in one years time, giving all parties enough time to focus on building a robust campaign with well articulated platforms and putting competent people in consideration. In the meantime, the corp commanders could call in Chinese experts for consultations to give a through analysis, industry by industry, of what Pakistan needs to do, and what a reasonable national plan for development could be, as well as how Pakistan can attract Chinese investment, not loans but investment, to fuel that development. Equally, laying out national interests, so politicians can submit their platforms and be advised as how it fits with the national plan or not, and asking them to adjust accordingly or find a unique way to come up with an alternative solution keeping in mind long term national interests.
