Defence Minister Khawaja Asif strongly defended the country’s hybrid governance model, saying it has been functioning successfully under the leadership of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
Speaking to a private TV channel, he described it as a system built on consensus between civilian and military leadership — a model he claims is delivering political stability and improved governance.
Asif drew a stark contrast with the previous PTI government, claiming the hybrid structure failed during Imran Khan’s tenure because “they never trusted each other,” leading to inevitable collapse. “That’s why the system didn’t work. There was no mutual trust,” he explained.
The defence minister didn’t hold back when discussing PTI’s internal divisions either. “I don't even need to comment — their infighting is visible to everyone,” he said, adding that the party’s top leaders are now openly at odds with one another.
In a revelation that caught many off guard, Khawaja Asif claimed that Imran Khan once approached the President to propose a lifetime extension for former Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa. This disclosure adds another layer to the complex and often tense civil-military dynamics during Khan's government.
Turning to regional security, Asif confirmed that Pakistan has shared solid proof with Afghan authorities regarding terrorist elements operating from Afghan soil. “We have repeatedly urged them to take action,” he stated, emphasizing Pakistan’s ongoing concerns about cross-border threats.
This marks another significant development in Pakistan’s efforts to maintain regional peace amid growing concerns over Afghanistan-based militant groups.
Commenting on the political front, Asif said it’s entirely up to the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) whether they choose to join the current government. However, he praised the past collaboration during the PDM tenure, calling it “a good experience.”
Speaking further about possible political alliances, he noted that cooperation between the two major parties — PML-N and PPP — could be beneficial for driving forward the national political agenda. “I’ve been in politics for a long time. If such an arrangement helps in moving our national agenda, it would be something I would appreciate,” he shared.
Although he didn’t confirm any ongoing negotiations, Asif clarified that his views were grounded in political experience rather than insider knowledge.
