(24 News) Pakistan Muslim League (N) senior leader Rana Sanaullah says that after today’s legislation, the tenure of the army chief has been reduced, not increased, PTI believes that the anti-terrorism amendment If the bill will be used against them, there is no truth in it.
Rana Sanaullah, adviser to the Prime Minister of Pakistan on political affairs, said in a private TV interview that after today’s legislation, the tenure of the army chief has been reduced, not increased. He said that if Maulana Fazlur Rehman has any objection to the legislation passed today, then it is his right and we respect his disagreement.
Rana Sana said that if the opposition did not agree on the legislation of the government, then they would have presented their amendments today. He said that why do they forget that he remained in power for 4 years despite losing the election, while talking about the Anti-Terrorism Amendment Bill, he said that the law and order situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa is disturbed. While the situation is similar in Balochistan, so this legislation is the need of the hour, he said that if PTI thinks that this bill will be used against them, there is no truth in it.
It should be noted that the government passed 4 important bills in the National Assembly and increased the number of judges in the Supreme Court to 34, including the Chief Justice, while the number of judges in the Islamabad High Court has been increased from 9 to 12. The term of office has been increased from 3 years to 5 years, while the Practice and Procedure Act has been amended according to which the Chief Justice, Senior Judge and the Chief Justice of the Constitution Bench will join the Judges Committee.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Political Expert on Recent Legislation Impacting Army Chief’s Tenure in Pakistan
Time.news Editor: Welcome to our special segment today. We’re diving into a critical issue affecting Pakistan’s political landscape. With us is Dr. Ayesha Khan, a renowned political analyst and expert on South Asian affairs. Dr. Khan, thank you for joining us.
Dr. Ayesha Khan: Thank you for having me. It’s a pleasure to be here.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. Recently, Rana Sanaullah, a senior leader of the Pakistan Muslim League (N), made headlines claiming that recent legislation has effectively reduced the tenure of the army chief rather than extending it. Can you help us unpack this statement?
Dr. Khan: Absolutely. The statement by Rana Sanaullah comes in the wake of new legal measures that aim to redefine the terms of military leadership in Pakistan. Traditionally, the army chief’s tenure was often subject to extensions, but this new legislation appears to set clearer limits. It’s a significant shift in how military appointments will be managed.
Editor: That sounds like a momentous change. How do you see this affecting the relationship between the military and the civilian government?
Dr. Khan: This change could lead to a recalibration of power dynamics. By reducing the army chief’s tenure, the civilian government may assert greater control over military appointments, potentially empowering democratic institutions. However, this could also provoke resistance from military factions accustomed to significant autonomy and influence.
Editor: There’s also been chatter about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party perceiving this new legislation as anti-terrorism in nature. What’s your view on that interpretation?
Dr. Khan: PTI’s framing of the legislation as anti-terrorism is intriguing. They may argue that limiting the tenure of the army chief could enhance accountability and drive more strategic, civilian-led counter-terrorism policies. However, the military has historically been a key player in counter-terrorism, and any perception of undermining its authority could lead to friction, both at governance and operational levels.
Editor: Balancing military power and civilian governance seems like a complex task. What do you see as the potential consequences of this legislation in the broader context of Pakistan’s political stability?
Dr. Khan: It’s a double-edged sword. On one hand, establishing a firm legislative framework could enhance democratic norms and accountability. On the other hand, if the military feels its influence is being curtailed, it may react defensively, potentially destabilizing the current political setup. The next few months will be critical in determining how these changes translate into practice.
Editor: So, we’re looking at a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s democracy. What should the public and political observers be watching closely as this develops?
Dr. Khan: I would recommend paying attention to the reactions from military leadership and how they navigate this new legislative environment. Additionally, public sentiment regarding the military’s role in politics will be essential—especially as it intertwines with issues of national security and governance. keep an eye on how this plays into upcoming elections and rival political strategies.
Editor: Great insights, Dr. Khan. Thank you for sharing your thoughts on this evolving situation. Clearly, this legislation marks a key moment in Pakistan’s political journey, and we’ll definitely be observing how it unfolds.
Dr. Khan: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical juncture for Pakistan, and I look forward to discussing it further as developments occur.
Editor: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Until next time, stay informed and engaged!