Pakistan’s former Prime Minister Imran Khan has launched a scathing attack on Army Chief General Asim Munir, labeling him “power-hungry” and accusing him of imposing a new era of military dictatorship in the country. Speaking via a statement released from jail, Khan accused Munir of orchestrating unrest and said the military’s grasp on power has reached unprecedented levels under the current leadership.

Khan, who remains incarcerated in Rawalpindi, alleges that General Munir is undermining democratic institutions and sidelining the civilian government. He further claimed that Munir, not Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has become Pakistans key power broker in foreign affairs, even being given prominence in international engagements.

The rift between Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and the military intensified after the May 9, 2023, protests, when Khans brief arrest led to violent demonstrations targeting army installations. The military responded with a strong crackdown, arresting thousands of PTI supporters and pressing charges against key opposition figures.

This renewed clash between political and military leaders comes at a delicate time for Pakistan, raising concerns about the countrys internal stability and its impact on regional security, especially given recent tensions with India and Afghanistan.

Analysts say Pakistan faces a critical moment, with Khan’s supporters hinting at further agitation and the military showing no sign of loosening its grip. The outcome of this standoff could have significant implications for Pakistan’s democracy and its role in South Asian geopolitics.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Reuters.