Pakistan (Commonwealth Union)_ Pakistan has been experiencing a wave of violence since the arrest of the former Prime Minister, Imran Khan, in connection with a corruption case. In response to his arrest, supporters of his party have been engaging in acts of vandalism and arson, causing damage to buildings, vehicles, and offices. However, in the midst of this, a recent development has also shaken Pakistan as well as the international community. Reports have surfaced of a rebellion within the Pakistani army, as six senior army officers have reportedly turned against the current army chief and the government of Pakistan. This claim was made by a retired officer of the Pakistan Army, Major Adil Raja (Retd), in a tweet.
According to Major Adil Raja’s claim, six Lieutenant Generals of the Pakistan Army, including Asif Ghafoor, Asim Malik, Nauman Zakaria, Saqib Malik, Salman Ghani, and Sardar Hasan Azhar, have openly opposed Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir and the ruling Pakistan Democratic Movement (PDM). He stated that they support a solution proposed by the President of Pakistan, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). Accordingly, the next 48 to 72 hours are considered crucial for Pakistan, as tensions continue to escalate.
In the meantime, the situation in Pakistan is precarious, with the possibility of further conflict and unrest. It is evident that the next few days will be decisive in determining the country’s future. With six Lieutenant Generals of the Pakistan Army, the Pakistan Army Chief, the Prime Minister, the President, and the Chief Justice potentially opposing each other, the country may be on the brink of civil war. Further, in response to the escalating violence, the Pakistan Army has increased its deployment to maintain control and order. Many of the Lieutenant Generals involved in the rebellion were previously considered contenders for the position of Pakistan Army Chief, with Asim Munir ultimately being selected by Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif as army chief. However, with recent events, the Prime Minister’s position may become increasingly precarious. The question remains as to whether Pakistan will face a civil war and, if so, whether the current leadership will be removed and command of the country handed over to new leadership in the army. Overall, the situation in Pakistan remains fluid, and its future remains uncertain.
