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| India-Pakistan |
| Pakistan's Army Chief Is Perhaps The Most Powerful Figure In The Country |
| 2010-04-22 |
| It is the worst-kept secret in Pakistan. When General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani's term as military commander comes to an end in November, there is every likelihood that it will be extended by up to two more years. The logic is simple. The general has overseen the difficult transition from military to civilian rule and rehabilitated the army's tainted image in the eyes of the Pakistani public. His forces have launched a prolonged military offensive against militant forces in the tribal areas along the Afghan border and the Swat Valley. At great cost in lives they have taken the initiative and are still fighting the last pockets of Taleban resistance. Soldiers are also spearheading reconstruction and development work in areas previously controlled by the Taleban It would make perfect sense for General Kayani to see through this operation rather than risk another commander coming in halfway through. There are also fears that his efforts to contain conservative Muslim elements within the army's ranks could be jeopardised were he to be replaced. The general is also thought to enjoy good relations with Washington, London and Islamabad's other key allies. But there are also dangers in allowing him to stay. The Pakistani military is not simply an arm of government. It is by far the most powerful institution in the country. Defence accounts for 5 per cent of the Government's budget. The military also receives billions of pounds in US aid. It controls Pakistan's nuclear weapons arsenal. It oversees the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) agency, the country security services. It also influences foreign policy with countries such as America and China. It holds veto rights on any peace initiatives with India. For that reason the Chief of the Army Staff is arguably the most powerful person in the country and extending his command is a hugely political decision. From its creation in 1947 the country has lived under the shadow of the military. In 1958, 1977 and 1999 the military seized power. As a result the civilian institutions remain weak and the political system immature. The country may need General Kayani, but at what price? |
| Posted by:Sherry |