ISLAMABAD: Defence Minister Khawaja Muhammad Asif has openly admitted that a hybrid governance system is currently in place in the country, stating that the model is not an ideal democratic setup but has delivered “remarkable results.”
In an interview with an Arab news outlet, Asif said, “This is not a textbook democratic government. The hybrid model, however, has produced significant outcomes, especially in terms of stability and governance.” He further noted that if such a system had been implemented in the 1990s, Pakistan’s trajectory might have been different.
He acknowledged that civil-military tensions in previous decades have hampered the country’s democratic progress. “Until we resolve our economic and governance challenges, this hybrid model will remain in place,” the minister remarked.
Clarifying the nature of the current system, Asif stated, “This is not a constitutional arrangement but a structure designed according to prevailing circumstances. We have divided responsibilities through mutual consultation.”
Regarding Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Asif emphasized that he makes decisions independently, though he remains in close consultation with the military establishment. “Shehbaz Sharif is exercising his authority freely while coordinating with the establishment on key matters,” he said.
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