Barrister Zafar Qazi

In Pakistan’s complex political landscape, the major players are well-known. But recent remarks by the Director-General of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, have shed new light on the subtle but significant role the military continues to play in shaping political discourse. While the ISPR’s press conference, held yesterday, officially focused on national security issues—such as terrorism and cross-border relations with Afghanistan—its undertones suggested a sharp rebuke of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party and its leader, Imran Khan. The timing and content of the presser pointed to a larger issue that has lingered for months: the deteriorating relationship between the military and the PTI, exacerbated by events surrounding May 9, 2023.

On the surface, the ISPR DG’s briefing covered a variety of topics, from terrorism resurgence to the challenges posed by cross-border relations with Afghanistan. However, the underlying message was unmistakable: the military remains deeply frustrated with the PTI’s conduct and narrative, particularly regarding the events of May 9. This press conference was not merely about foreign policy or national security; it was, in many ways, a calculated message aimed squarely at the PTI, and more specifically at Imran Khan.

May 9, 2023: The Turning Point

The events of May 9, 2023, continue to cast a long shadow over Pakistan’s political and institutional fabric. What began as violent protests triggered by Imran Khan’s arrest spiraled into a nationwide upheaval, with significant damage to military installations and state property. The ISPR DG emphasized the role of PTI’s social media, suggesting that the youth had been manipulated through toxic propaganda. Observers have long pointed to the PTI’s social media campaign as being instrumental in inciting violence and deepening divisions in the country. However, there are a number of other people who take the view that the mandate of the PTI was stolen, and therefore, PTI could go to any length to take their mandate back. Furthermore, PTI’s attempt to frame the May 9 incident as a ‘false flag operation’ only added fuel to the fire, making any reconciliation efforts between the military and the political party more difficult.

The military’s frustration with the PTI’s refusal to backtrack from this narrative was palpable in the press conference. As the ISPR DG rightly pointed out, continuing to promote such a narrative undermines any potential for meaningful dialogue. Political analysts, including some within the PTI’s ranks, have repeatedly advised the party to reconsider its stance, especially if it seeks to engage in productive talks. Instead, the PTI’s persistent adherence to its claims has only served to further strain civil-military relations, turning the May 9 incident into a flashpoint that now defines the PTI’s relationship with the military.

Military Trials and the Legal Dilemma

One of the more contentious issues arising from the May 9 protests has been the military’s decision to try civilians under military tribunals. This has been a divisive topic, with legal experts criticizing the move, while both the government and the ISPR defend it as a necessary response to maintain national security. This complex issue of balancing institutional necessity with legal propriety adds another layer of tension to the situation. While the military’s frustration is understandable given the severity of the events, the question remains whether such actions undermine Pakistan’s constitutional framework and the legal rights of its citizens.

In addition to this, the military spokesperson addressed the events of November 26, 2023, when clashes between security personnel and PTI supporters in Islamabad led to violence. The military insisted that security forces were unarmed during the incident and that the blame for ‘false propaganda’ lay squarely with the PTI. While this clarifies one aspect of the event, there remain unanswered questions about the deaths that occurred during the clashes. The government must address these concerns with transparency, as sweeping them under the rug will only deepen public distrust and fuel further political polarization. There are serious claims that firining was carried out on 26th November, and therefore, it requires proper investigation.

Afghanistan and Cross-Border Terrorism

While domestic politics dominated much of the press conference, the ISPR DG also made a pointed declaration regarding Afghanistan. Pakistan has long been pressing Afghanistan to dismantle terrorist networks, particularly those operating from Afghan soil, such as the Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP). However, despite repeated diplomatic efforts, Pakistan’s request has largely gone unheeded. The military’s frustration with Afghanistan’s inaction is clear, as Pakistan has borne the brunt of cross-border terrorism that destabilizes its regions, particularly Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and Balochistan.

The ISPR DG’s statements signaled Pakistan’s unwavering resolve to tackle cross-border terrorism, but this commitment raises concerns about the potential for retaliatory measures that could further destabilize an already volatile region. While Pakistan’s actions in response to terrorism are justified, there is always the risk that escalating tensions could lead to broader conflict. Diplomatic channels must remain open to prevent the situation from spiraling out of control.

The Road Ahead for PTI and Pakistan’s Political Landscape

The tone of the press conference, coupled with its timing, raises important questions about the future of Pakistan’s political negotiations, especially between the PTI and the government. The military’s intervention in political affairs—though framed as a national security issue—also has political ramifications. Given that the ISPR’s statements were aimed directly at the PTI’s narrative, it raises concerns about the party’s ability to engage in meaningful negotiations with the government.

The PTI, led by Imran Khan, finds itself at a crossroads. Its persistent refusal to backtrack from contentious positions—especially regarding the May 9 incident—may continue to alienate key political and institutional stakeholders. The party is also grappling with a lack of internal cohesion, with growing criticism from both within and outside its ranks. The PTI needs to decide whether it will continue to engage in adversarial posturing or shift toward a more constructive political approach.

For Pakistan to address its myriad challenges—ranging from terrorism to economic instability—constructive engagement between all stakeholders is essential. The military, the government, and political parties must prioritize national interest over partisan agendas. Only by focusing on common ground and working together can Pakistan navigate its current crisis and emerge stronger. Lastly, PTI is the most popular political party and Imran Khan is the most popular political leader in Pakistan. Therefore, it is essential to provide PTI their political space as per their mandate.

Conclusion: A Call for Constructive Engagement

The ISPR’s press conference has underscored the deepening divide between the military and the PTI, but it has also pointed to a larger issue: Pakistan’s political future depends on cooperation and dialogue among all stakeholders. The government and political parties must look beyond partisan rhetoric and prioritize the nation’s well-being. As the country grapples with serious challenges, it is imperative that political leaders, military officials, and the public all work towards a shared vision of stability, prosperity, and peace. Only through such cooperation can Pakistan hope to overcome the multiple crises it faces and build a better future for all its citizens. Pakistan needs strong political decisions of rule of law, democracy and the will of the people to elect their government.