Pakistan Defence Minister defends ‘hybrid’ rule, downplays army dominance
**Pakistan Defence Minister Defends ‘Hybrid’ Rule, Downplays Army Dominance**
*By Snehil Singh | Sep 27, 2025 | 05:18 PM*
Pakistan’s Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has defended the country’s unique “hybrid” governance model in a recent interview with broadcaster and writer Mehdi Hasan. This model represents a power-sharing arrangement between the military and civilian leadership in Pakistan.
When asked whether the army was effectively in charge, Asif rejected the notion, emphasizing that he is a political appointee. He also dismissed comparisons of Pakistan’s system to the “deep state” often referenced in discussions about US democracy. Instead, he blamed previous military rulers for the prominent role the army has played historically in Pakistan.
### Governance Structure: A ‘Hybrid’ Model
Asif described Pakistan’s governance as “hybrid,” a term he has used before to highlight the practicality of this arrangement. According to him, decisions are made through consensus rather than by a single entity dominating the process.
Responding to questions about who has the final say when disagreements arise between him and Army Chief Asim Munir, Asif said they can agree to disagree. He reiterated that all decisions are through consensus, stating, “It’s not equal. We can agree to disagree. It is by consensus, whatever is taking place.”
### Endorsement of the Hybrid Model
Earlier this year, Asif praised the “hybrid regime” in Pakistan, calling it a “practical necessity” while the country works to resolve its economic and governance challenges. He added that this approach has been “doing wonders” for the nation.
This interview follows a recent visit by Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Army Chief Asim Munir to the White House, where they met with United States President Donald Trump. The meeting underscored ongoing strategic dialogues between Pakistan and the United States amid evolving regional dynamics.
https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/pakistan-minister-was-asked-who-runs-country-army-or-government/story
