Mon Oct 27 14:13:25 UTC 2025: Summary:

Reports suggest that Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, is consolidating power by strategically placing loyalists within key positions across the military and civil administration. Rather than staging a direct coup, sources claim Munir is working to exert control through a puppet government and by infiltrating various departments with his allies, including family members. This alleged power grab comes amid internal tensions regarding Munir’s desired extension as Army Chief and growing security concerns due to the actions of groups such as the TTP and BLA. Critics suggest these actions are driven by insecurity and a desire to maintain ultimate authority within Pakistan.

News Article:

Is Pakistan’s Army Chief Silently Seizing Control? Allegations of Power Consolidation Surface

Islamabad, Pakistan – Concerns are mounting over the alleged consolidation of power by Pakistan’s Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, with reports suggesting he is strategically positioning loyalists within both the military and civil administration to exert near-total control over the country.

Sources indicate that Munir, instead of resorting to a direct military coup that would likely face international condemnation, is employing a more subtle approach. This involves maintaining a “puppet government” led by President Asif Ali Zardari and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, while simultaneously placing trusted individuals, including family members, in crucial administrative and intelligence roles.

Specifically, the transfer of Munir’s nephew, Captain Syed Abu Rehman Bin Qasim, from the armed forces to the civil services and his placement in the Prime Minister’s office, is raising eyebrows. Critics see this as a move to closely monitor Sharif’s activities. Furthermore, the appointment of General Asim Malik, considered a close ally, as ISI chief and National Security Advisor is seen as further evidence of Munir’s attempt to dominate key sectors.

“This gives Munir more power to control the system, while also showing the world that Pakistan is technically a democracy,” one official reportedly stated. Plans to place loyalists in the interior ministry, high commissions, and embassies are also allegedly underway.

These moves come amid existing tensions within the military and government, reportedly fueled by Munir’s desire to extend his tenure as Army Chief until 2030, a move that has allegedly caused resentment among senior officers awaiting promotion.

Adding to the unease, Munir’s leadership is reportedly facing challenges on the security front, with growing concerns over the actions of the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and the Balochistan Nationalist Army (BLA). These challenges, combined with internal dissatisfaction, are allegedly contributing to Munir’s perceived insecurity and his drive to solidify his grip on power.

While the Prime Minister and President remain in their positions, critics suggest that these roles have become largely symbolic, serving only to maintain the facade of a functioning democracy. The allegations raise serious questions about the future of governance and the balance of power within Pakistan.

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