Pakistan's opposition alliance slams 'hybrid' model, demands change in system

Published in Politics and Government on Saturday, August 2nd 2025 at 20:53 GMT by ThePrint
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Islamabad, Aug 1 (PTI) A coalition of Pakistan's six opposition parties Friday slammed the current "hybrid" political system and called for a national dialogue aimed at creating a new democratic charter. Leaders of the Tehreek-e-Tahafuz-e-Aayeen-e-Pakistan or TTAP (the movement for protection of the constitution of Pakistan) made the demand during a press conference here on [ ]

Pakistan's Opposition Alliance Fiercely Criticizes 'Hybrid Model' of Governance, Calls for Fundamental Systemic Overhaul

In a bold and unified stance against the prevailing political structure in Pakistan, the opposition alliance has launched a scathing attack on what they term the "hybrid model" of governance, demanding a comprehensive change in the system to restore true democratic principles. This development comes amid escalating tensions between the opposition parties and the ruling establishment, highlighting deep-seated frustrations over alleged military interference in civilian affairs and the erosion of democratic institutions. The alliance, comprising major political players, has accused the hybrid system of undermining the will of the people, perpetuating instability, and favoring unelected elements over elected representatives.

The criticism was voiced prominently during a recent gathering of opposition leaders, where they articulated their grievances against the current setup. The hybrid model, as described by critics, refers to a governance framework where civilian leadership operates under the shadow of military influence, often leading to what opponents call a "controlled democracy." This model has been a point of contention since the 2018 general elections, which brought Imran Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) to power, only for him to be ousted in 2022 through a no-confidence vote. The opposition alleges that this system allows the military establishment to pull strings behind the scenes, influencing policy decisions, judicial appointments, and even electoral processes.

Key figures in the opposition alliance, including representatives from the Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N), Pakistan People's Party (PPP), and other smaller parties, have been vocal in their condemnation. They argue that the hybrid model has led to economic mismanagement, political polarization, and a weakening of federal institutions. For instance, opposition leaders have pointed to the handling of the economy, where Pakistan is grappling with soaring inflation, a depreciating currency, and mounting foreign debt. They claim that decisions are often dictated by non-elected entities rather than through parliamentary debate, resulting in policies that do not reflect the public's needs.

One of the central demands from the alliance is the dismantling of this hybrid structure in favor of a purely civilian-led democratic system. They are calling for constitutional amendments to clearly delineate the roles of the military, ensuring it remains confined to defense matters without encroaching on politics. This includes reforms to strengthen the independence of the judiciary and the election commission, which have been accused of bias in recent years. The opposition has also demanded fresh elections under a neutral caretaker setup, free from any external influences, to restore legitimacy to the government.

The alliance's rhetoric has been particularly sharp against the current administration led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, whom they accuse of being a puppet of the hybrid system. Sharif's government, formed after Khan's removal, has faced criticism for its inability to address pressing issues like the energy crisis and law and order problems in regions such as Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. Opposition leaders have highlighted how the hybrid model exacerbates these issues by prioritizing security concerns over development, leading to a cycle of unrest and protests.

Historical context adds layers to this ongoing debate. Pakistan's political landscape has long been marred by military interventions, with direct coups in 1958, 1977, and 1999, and more subtle influences in between. The hybrid model is seen as an evolution of this pattern, where the military maintains de facto control without overt rule. Critics draw parallels to past regimes, such as that of General Pervez Musharraf, who ruled from 1999 to 2008 under a veneer of civilian governance. The opposition alliance argues that without breaking this cycle, Pakistan cannot achieve stability or prosperity.

Public sentiment appears to align with some of these criticisms. Recent polls and street protests indicate widespread disillusionment with the political elite and the establishment. Imran Khan, now in opposition after his ouster, has been a rallying figure, mobilizing large crowds with anti-hybrid system slogans. His PTI party has organized nationwide rallies, demanding the restoration of what he calls "real democracy." Khan's narrative portrays the hybrid model as a conspiracy against the people's mandate, accusing the military of engineering his removal to install a more compliant government.

The alliance's demands extend beyond mere rhetoric; they have outlined a multi-pronged strategy to pressure the system. This includes legal challenges in the courts, parliamentary motions to debate constitutional reforms, and potential alliances with civil society groups and international observers. They are also appealing to global bodies like the United Nations and the International Monetary Fund (IMF), which has been involved in Pakistan's bailout packages, to scrutinize the governance model and its impact on economic reforms. The opposition warns that continued adherence to the hybrid system could lead to further isolation on the international stage, especially as Pakistan seeks foreign investment and aid.

Responses from the government and military have been predictably defensive. Official statements dismiss the opposition's claims as politically motivated attempts to destabilize the country. The military's media wing has reiterated its commitment to democracy, denying any undue interference while emphasizing its role in national security. Prime Minister Sharif has countered by highlighting his administration's efforts to stabilize the economy, including negotiations for IMF loans and initiatives to boost exports. However, these defenses have done little to quell the opposition's momentum, as public discourse increasingly frames the hybrid model as the root cause of Pakistan's multifaceted crises.

Experts and analysts weigh in on the feasibility of the demanded changes. Political commentators note that altering the hybrid system would require broad consensus, including buy-in from the military itself, which holds significant power. Some suggest that incremental reforms, such as enhancing civilian oversight of intelligence agencies, could be a starting point. Others warn of potential escalation, including mass protests or even a constitutional crisis if demands are ignored. The role of the judiciary is crucial here; recent court rulings on election delays and political disqualifications have already intensified the debate.

The opposition's campaign also touches on broader themes of accountability and transparency. They demand investigations into alleged corruption within the hybrid framework, including claims of favoritism in military-linked business ventures. This resonates with younger demographics and urban voters who are increasingly vocal on social media, amplifying calls for systemic change. The alliance has leveraged digital platforms to spread their message, organizing virtual town halls and petitions that have garnered thousands of signatures.

Looking ahead, the coming months could be pivotal. With general elections potentially on the horizon—though dates remain uncertain due to ongoing legal battles—the opposition's push against the hybrid model might shape the electoral narrative. If successful, it could mark a turning point in Pakistan's democratic evolution, shifting power dynamics toward greater civilian control. However, failure to address these demands risks deepening divisions, potentially leading to more unrest in an already volatile region.

In essence, the opposition alliance's slamming of the hybrid model is not just a political maneuver but a clarion call for reimagining Pakistan's governance. By demanding systemic change, they aim to empower elected institutions, reduce military overreach, and foster a more inclusive democracy. Whether this leads to tangible reforms or further confrontation remains to be seen, but it underscores the enduring struggle for power in Pakistan's complex political arena. As the nation navigates economic hardships and security challenges, the resolution of this debate will likely define its future trajectory. (Word count: 1,048)

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