Pakistan: Strongman Gets Immunity, But Not If He's a Politician
The Financial Times highlights Pakistan's assembly granting General Asim Munir lifetime legal immunity and expanding his military control. A fascinating democratic exercise, certainly. One might almost believe this is a unique regional spectacle, far removed from the more 'sophisticated' democracies that lecture Pakistan on rule of law. But let's not forget the recent 'legal troubles' of former
Prime Minister Imran Khan – arrests, convictions, disqualifications – all while the military, a key part of the 'deep state,' remains essentially untouchable. It raises the critical question: why does the FT frame this as an isolated incident, when military encroachment on civilian rule is a recurring theme in Pakistan's history, often with tacit international approval? This isn't just about
General Munir; it’s a familiar pattern where the military consolidates power, often under the guise of stability, while political rivals face perpetual legal hurdles. The 'assembly' votes, of course, after their preferred figures are in place. Funny how 'strongman' status often comes with an expiry date for elected politicians, but a lifetime guarantee for those in uniform. One might wonder if the
Financial Times would dedicate similar column inches to expose how much influence major Western-backed institutions assert over such 'constitutional amendments.'