Pakistan Elections 2024: In the ongoing Pakistan elections, the outcome appears predestined due to the nation’s political history. It’s widely acknowledged that regardless of the winning party, the victor is handpicked by the Pakistani Army. This time, Army Chief General Asim Munir has reportedly thrown his support behind Nawaz Sharif.
Political circles are abuzz with speculation that Nawaz Sharif’s ‘Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz’ (PML-N) may emerge as the largest party in the elections. Furthermore, there are indications that the army is backing Nawaz Sharif this time around.
In the past, the army had supported Imran Khan’s rise to power, but he later fell out with the military establishment. Imran accused the army of orchestrating his ousting from the Prime Minister’s post, leading to his removal.
Pakistan’s Long History of Military Interference in Politics
- Military Intervention: The Pakistan Army has a history of intervening in politics, with martial law being imposed thrice since the country’s inception in 1947, resulting in prolonged periods of direct military rule.
- Behind-the-Scenes Influence: Even during civilian governments, the army has exerted significant influence, often orchestrating the appointment of Prime Ministers who are perceived to be loyal to the military establishment.
- Coup Incidents: Notable instances of military coups include General Ayub Khan’s takeover in 1958, General Zia ul Haq’s imposition of martial law in 1977, and General Pervez Musharraf’s coup in 1999, each leading to extended periods of military rule in Pakistan.
Since its inception in 1947, the Pakistan Army has intervened in the country’s political affairs on multiple occasions, imposing martial law thrice. Over three decades out of seven, Pakistan has been under direct military rule. Even during periods of civilian government, the army has exerted significant influence behind the scenes, often handpicking loyal candidates for the Prime Minister’s post.
The first military coup occurred in 1958, when General Ayub Khan overthrew President Iskander Mirza. Although martial law officially lasted for 44 months, Ayub Khan remained in power until 1969, appointing General Yahya Khan as his successor. Yahya Khan held the presidency until 1971, resigning following Pakistan’s defeat in the 1971 war with India, paving the way for Zulfikar Ali Bhutto to assume the presidency.
In July 1977, General Zia ul Haq declared martial law in Pakistan, which persisted until 1988. Despite the elections in 1985 that saw Mohammad Khan Junejo become Prime Minister, Zia continued to wield control from the presidency until his death.
In 1999, General Pervez Musharraf staged a coup, ousting Nawaz Sharif from power and ruling Pakistan until 2008. This history of military intervention fuels speculation of the army’s potential return to power.
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