National Institute of Management

Islamabad
37th MCMC

Topic: Civil-Military Relations in Pakistan: Complications and

Quest for Balance

Presented By: Sabahat Khusro

Service Group: Intelligence Bureau
Sponsored By: Ms. Samreen Zahara
INTRODUCTION:

On June 14, 1948, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, the Founding Father, addressed the Staff
College of the Pakistan Army in Quetta, where he clearly outlined the role of the military stating;

“Don’t forget that the armed forces are the servants of the people. You don’t make national policy; it is the
civilians, who decide these issues and it is your duty to carry out these tasks with which you are entrusted”1
Ironically, however, the dictum has been trampled time and again in the name of national interest and
progress

A sovereign state is keeping and maintaining its internal security and necessary protection against hostile
countries, which is the prime responsibility of forces. A state delegates this authority to the army, hence
army is responsible for the security of the country. Civil-military relations in any country is an indicator of
a high level of democracy and institutional harmony, we can say that the quality of democracy and high
level of governance are determent not by the form of establishment of government but also depends on the
governance. The traditional and simple political system does not resist forces. Therefore, civil-military
relations are working to enhance the strength of democracy.2 The democratic institutions have not brought
up strong roots against forces. Subjective control is another aspect of practicing civil control wherein the
military heads are involved in civil governance working with an approach to civilizing the military with the
aim to create adequate stakeholders in the system for the military.

PM Zulfiqar Ali Bhutto could not succeed in his desired goals in politics as well as the civil-military
relationship. He had tried to keep good civil-military relations but he could not succeed.3 Furthermore,
COAS General Zia-ul-Haq and Musharraf’s era when weak democratic systems developed the present as
well as the last civilian government’s tenures are indicators of a change in the civil-military relations to
preferring democratic government as a national interest.

1
(Ahmed, 2021)
2
(Rizvi, 2003)
3
(Feaver, 1996)

2
We have a present example of Mr. Imran Khan’s govt, when the Military stopped to support his government,
its downfall started. Ex.PM has exposed Civil-Military relations and also expressed the term “neutral” in
the contest of Civil-Military relations. The Ex. Chief of Army staff also admitted the Army’s influence in
politics and the governance of Pakistan, when his tenure was completed on November 2022.4

History indicates that in Pakistan 4 times Martial Law was imposed,

1. 7th Oct 1958 by Iskandar Mirza

2. 25th March 1969 by General Yahya Khan
3. 25th July 1977 by General Zia-ul- Haq
4. 12th October 1999 by General Pervaiz Musharraf5

COMPLICATIONS OF CIVIL-MILITARY RELATIONS:

a) Pakistan's military has historically played a crucial role in maintaining internal security. The
country's complex security landscape, encompassing insurgencies, terrorism, and border disputes,
has necessitated a significant military presence, with the military assuming a prominent role in
counterterrorism operations and maintaining law and order.
b) Civilian Government's Role in Security Policy: Balancing the military's security concerns with the
civilian government's role in determining security policy remains a challenge. While the military
possesses the expertise and operational experience, civilian oversight is vital to ensuring that
security measures align with democratic principles and respect human rights.6
c) Economic Role of the Military: Involvement in economic activities grants the military significant
financial resources and enhances its influence.
d) Democratic Consolidation: The interruptions caused by military interventions have often led to
political instability and weakened civilian institutions. Strengthening democratic processes,
nurturing political parties, and promoting a culture of accountability is crucial for democratic
consolidation.7
e) Balancing Accountability and National Security: Finding the right balance between civilian
oversight and military autonomy is crucial for maintaining political legitimacy. Ensuring
transparency, accountability, and adherence to constitutional principles are essential while
addressing security concerns and protecting national interests.8

4
(Marvin G. Weinbaum, 2023)
5
(Zafar, 2023)
6
(Haque, 2019)
7
(Khan, 2010)
8
(Janjua, 2021)

3
 f) Strengthening Civilian Institutions: To achieve a balanced civil-military relationship, strengthening
civilian institutions is paramount. This involves enhancing their capacity, promoting
professionalism, and providing training and resources necessary for effective governance.9
g) Defining the Military's Role: Clearly defining the military's role within the constitutional
framework is essential for establishing boundaries and ensuring civilian control. This includes
revisiting the National Security Council's structure and mandate to foster dialogue and coordination
between civilian and military leadership.10

PREVIOUS TRENDS:
The previous exercise of change began with the failure of the elected government of PM Feroz Khan Noon
in 1958 by President General Sikandar Mirza, who in term was shown the door by General Ayub Khan and
it has been continued ever since. More importantly, the military saw the direct military role when it can
manipulate lever facto control over the government, especially on nuclear installations, important foreign
policy issues military financing, and involvement in national security decision-makers. Ex-PM Mian Nawaz
Sharif’s perpetual attempts to rein in the military chief ended to replace General Musharraf. PML-N later
sweep on the military exposed in the Dawn Leaks, Nawaz Sharif, and Marium Nawaz comments on the
former chief and General Faiz for our throwing their government. Ex-President Zardari’ Memogate scandal
and Imran’s tiff with the military over the replacement of then DG ISI General Faiz Hameed and assets leak
of the former chief family from FBR. 11

STATEMENT OF PROBLEM:

Civil-military relations play a crucial role in the stability and governance of any nation, including Pakistan.
The relationship between the civilian government and the military in Pakistan has been characterized by a
complex interplay of power dynamics, historical legacies, and geopolitical considerations. The problem
touches its limits when both characters don’t understand their role within the constitutional framework.
Problems arise when the civil government sucks the military into politics by involving in civilian matters.
This study aims to explore the complications surrounding civil-military relations in Pakistan and the
ongoing quest for a delicate balance between these two important pillars of the state.

9
(Rahman, 2017)
10
(Rahman, 2017)
11
(Ahmed, 2021)

4
SCOPE:

The scope of the study shall focus on the relationship and balance between civil and military leadership in
the landscape of Pakistan. This study will focus only on Pakistan and not relate internationally. It will also
determine the role of the military without interference in democratic political Government. This study is
limited to the responsibility of civilian leadership and forces toward the development of a country without
crossing boundaries. The causes of previous Marshal laws and detail will not be discussed due to the old
chapter.

ISSUES & CHALLENGES/ ANALYSIS

First and foremost, transparency and accountability are essential pillars of any healthy democracy.
Unfortunately, there have been instances where the civilian government and the military have faced
difficulties in maintaining relations and accountable practices. It is imperative that steps be taken to ensure
greater transparency in decision-making processes and the allocation of resources to promote good
relations.

a. A significant challenge lies in striking the right balance between the role of the civilian government
and the military in policy making.
b. Strengthening democratic institutions and promoting civilian oversight in matters of defense and
foreign policy would contribute to a more effective and inclusive decision-making process. Moreover,
the influence of the military in areas traditionally governed by civilian institutions, such as the
economy and social development, raises concerns about the militarization of governance.12
c. It is an important challenge to ensure that civilian institutions are empowered to fulfill their
respective responsibilities without undue interference. Furthermore, the issue of the impact of
military operations on civilian populations requires careful attention.
d. It is challenging to balance national security imperatives and safeguard citizens, fundamental rights,
and dignity. Close coordination and cooperation between civil and military authorities are necessary
to ensure that military operations are conducted to protect civilian lives and minimize collateral
damage.
e. Pakistan's challenging security environment, has provided the military with a strong rationale for its
involvement in political affairs. The military often argues that it is better equipped to address security
challenges and safeguard national interests, leading to an inherent tension between the civilian

12
(Staniland, 2008)

5
 government's desire for civilian control and the military's perceived need for an active role in
decision-making.13

CONCLUSION:

Achieving a sustainable and balanced civil-military relationship requires a collective effort from both the
civilian leadership and the military establishment. To respect democratic principles, strengthen civilian
institutions, and ensure that the military remains within its constitutional limits by addressing historical
legacies, security concerns, and economic dimensions, a democratic transition is needed. public perception,
and promoting a culture of dialogue and cooperation, Pakistan can navigate the complexities of civil-
military relations and foster a more inclusive and prosperous future.

RECOMMENDATIONS (QUEST FOR BALANCE):

a. Considering the previous history military should not influence judicial, or executive power and
decision-making in civil matters. The noninterference of forces in democratic politics can improve
the relations between civil-military. Problems arise when the civil government sucks the military
into politics by involving in civilian matters.
b. We Should keep a fairly active parliamentary committee and an independent media could control
the military accountable to the people and the government. The parliamentary committee needs to
perform more actively by questioning and controlling positively the defense affairs.
c. Ideologically to be a neutral army should participate neutrally towards the civil government.
d. The minimum role of the military in the national economy needs to practice care and not interfere
with the civilian industrial sector due to its economic interests and activities. the military in Pakistan
has a positive impact on economic development, its involvement in social economic activities is
limited to only welfare projects of ex-servicemen and their families.
e. The presence of an effective chain of command in the military towards civilian command
(government) should ensure accountability President and as well as PM of Pakistan are holding
powerful authority over Pakistan forces as constitutional heads of the government.
f. An open and constructive dialogue between the military and civilian leadership is crucial for
understanding each other's perspectives, addressing concerns, and fostering cooperation. Regular
interactions, joint decision-making processes, and institutionalized mechanisms for communication
can help build trust and minimize misunderstandings.

13
(Smith, feb 4, 2020)

6
BIBLIOGRAPHY:

Ahmed, B. S. (2021, February 08). The Reasons Behind the Complicated Civil-Military Relations in
Pakistan. Retrieved from Paradigm Shift: https://www.paradigmshift.com.pk/civil-military-
relations-pakistan/

Feaver, P. D. (1996). The Civil-Military Problematique: Huntington, Janowitz and the Question of Civil
Control. Armed Forces of Society.

Haque, I. U. (2019, December 31). The Gordian knot of civil-military relations in Pakistan. Retrieved from
The Express Tribune: https://tribune.com.pk/story/2127578/gordian-knot-civil-military-relations-
pakistan

Janjua, B. (. (2021). Civil-Military Relations in Pakistan:Quest for an ideal Balance.

Khan, N. (2010). Civil-military relations: A case study of Pakistan . Las Vegas: University of Nevada, Las
Vegas .

Marvin G. Weinbaum, N.-e.-A. S. (2023, June 7). Middle East Institute. Retrieved from Pakistan’s
establishment closing the curtain on Imran Khan and his party:
https://www.mei.edu/publications/pakistans-establishment-closing-curtain-imran-khan-and-his-
party

Rahman, Z. S. (2017). Rethinking Civil-Military Relations in a Pakistan: Some Lessons from. Journal of
Socialomics, 1-5.

Rizvi, H. A. (2003). Military, State and Society in Pakistan, Military, State and Society in Pakistan.

Smith, D. (feb 4, 2020). Civil military relationship:positive Evolution or more of the same. South Asia.

Standiland, P. (2008). Explaining Civil-Military Relations in Complex Political: India and Pakistan in
comparative perspective study. Explaining Civil-Military Relations in Complex Politicall:Iindia and
Pakistan in comparative perspective study.

Zafar, M. S. (2023, May 29). Pak Army Ranks. Retrieved from List of Martial Law in Pakistan [With Dates
and Names]: https://pakarmyranks.com/martial-law-in-pakistan/