Does a Plan Exist to Remove Zardari?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Political Uncertainty: President Zardari's future remains uncertain amidst rumors of his removal.
- Official Denials: Key political figures have publicly dismissed these rumors.
- Strengthening Coalition: PML-N has solidified its position in the National Assembly, reducing reliance on PPP.
- History of Instability: Pakistan's political landscape is marked by ongoing instability and military influence.
- Strategic Military Role: The military continues to play a significant role in national security discussions.
Islamabad, July 10 (NationPress) The political landscape in Pakistan remains fraught with uncertainty as President Asif Ali Zardari faces speculation regarding his potential ouster, with suggestions that Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir could take his place.
In response to these concerns, Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi took to social media on Thursday, dismissing such claims as a malicious campaign.
He stated, “I have categorically stated that there has been no discussion, nor does any such idea exist, about the President being asked to resign or the COAS aspiring to assume the presidency,” in a post on X.
The Interior Minister emphasized that the primary focus of the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) is to maintain the strength and stability of Pakistan. Additionally, Hussein Bukhari, Secretary General of the Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP), also refuted rumors surrounding Zardari's possible replacement, stressing that the federal government cannot function without the support of the PPP.
Bukhari's comments surfaced amid suggestions that Zardari's removal could follow a forthcoming constitutional amendment.
It is important to note that the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) achieved a simple majority in the National Assembly on July 2, thanks to the Election Commission of Pakistan's (ECP) reinstatement of reserved seats, in line with a Supreme Court ruling. This has escalated the ruling coalition's numbers from 218 to 235, granting them a two-thirds majority, thus bolstering the PML-N's position while diminishing its reliance on the PPP. Consequently, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaaf (PTI) is likely to see its influence wane.
Moreover, PML-N Senator Irfan Siddiqui also firmly denied any intentions to replace Asif Ali Zardari.
Experts caution about the history of military coups in Pakistan, recognizing that one of the country's significant vulnerabilities is its persistent political instability. They argue that the ongoing dependency of the civil administration on the armed forces perpetuates its image as a praetorian or garrison state.
Recently, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif praised Asim Munir for demonstrating strategic leadership and a decisive role during India's 'Operation Sindoor'. The newly appointed Field Marshal reciprocated, expressing his profound gratitude to Pakistan's political leadership for their crucial role in the four-day conflict with India.