Islamabad: A recent report highlights that Pakistan’s internal stability, achieved by suppressing dissent and gaining temporary support from major global powers, remains extremely fragile. The hybrid governance system continues to struggle in winning public trust, with the prevailing “illusion of order” carrying the seeds of its own downfall.
Imtiaz Gul, Executive Director of the Islamabad-based Centre for Research and Security Studies, writing for East Asia Forum, noted that 2025 witnessed a decisive strengthening of military power in Pakistan. The previously hybrid system—where civilian politicians were the face of governance but the military held real power—has now shifted to overt military dominance.
According to Gul, “For many Pakistanis, 2025 marked a further decline of democracy. The judiciary weakened, parliamentary strength diminished, and the role of elected representatives was reduced to mere compliance. Most members of the National Assembly formed after the controversial February 2024 elections appeared closely aligned with the military establishment. Through various legislative measures, formal authority was transferred from civilian institutions to the armed forces, prioritising ‘stability’ over democratic competition.”
The report also underlines the intensified marginalisation of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Detained since August 2023 on alleged politically motivated charges, Khan’s arrest has exacerbated internal unrest in the country.
Before Donald Trump’s return to the White House, Khan’s supporters had sought assistance from US Republican lawmakers, including August Pfluger, Joe Wilson, Jack Bergman, and Trump’s close aide Richard Grenell, to advocate for his release. However, subsequent international developments rendered these efforts ineffective.
International concern over Khan’s detention persisted. In December 2025, Alice Jill Edwards, UN Special Rapporteur on Torture, demanded urgent action regarding the alleged inhumane conditions at Adiala Jail, including prolonged solitary confinement.
Global attention on Pakistan’s civilian-military leadership intensified when US President Trump referred to Pakistan’s army chief Asim Munir as his “favourite field marshal.” This endorsement significantly dampened hopes among Khan’s supporters that external pressure might secure his release. Since his ouster via a no-confidence motion in April 2022, over 180 cases have been registered against Imran Khan.
The report emphasises that events in 2025 illustrate how democratic values are easily sacrificed for strategic convenience. Amid growing US competition with China and Russia, Pakistan’s military-led leadership aligned itself with Washington’s priorities.
Geopolitical considerations have also weakened global scrutiny of Pakistan’s democratic processes and human rights record.
The report warns, “In Pakistan, where discontent frequently reaches boiling point, short-term arrangements risk leading to deeper and more dangerous disorder.”
My name is Bhupendra Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.
Leave a Comment