The Field Marshal's Baton: Asim Munir’s Rise & the Shadow of a Dictator

By Sourashis Chanda  May 21, 2025

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Why reward the military after a perceived failure?

The promotion comes just after the Pahalgam terror attack (April 2025), where Pakistan-based militants killed civilians. India retaliated with Operation Sindoor, striking terrorist camps in Pakistan.

The Ghost of Ayub Khan

Pakistan’s first Field Marshal, Ayub Khan, seized power in 1958 and ruled as a dictator for 11 years. His reign saw: – Suppression of democracyCrackdown on dissentCentralized military rule Now, people fear history may repeat itself.

What Does This Mean for Pakistan?

Military’s grip on power strengthensCivilian government’s authority weakensRisk of further democratic erosion Will Munir follow Ayub’s path or uphold democracy?t.

What’s Next?

BThe world watches: – Will Munir resist absolute power? – Or will Pakistan slide back into military rule? Only time will tell.