Lecture on General Bajwa and Pakistani Politics

Introduction

• General Bajwa: Discussed his tenure and impact on Pakistani politics.
• Key Figures: General Raheel Sharif, Nawaz Sharif, Imran Khan
• Events: Terrorism, Military operations (e.g. Zarb-e-Azb, Radd-ul-Fasaad), military-civil relations.

General Raheel Sharif's Influence

• Popularity: Following successful military operations, Raheel Sharif gained prominence, even seen as a de facto PM by some.
• Announcement: Declared his retirement 11 months before the end of his term.
• Public Sentiment: "Thanks Raheel Sharif" became popular on social media.
• Politician Challenges: Nawaz Sharif overshadowed by Raheel Sharif's presence.

Nawaz Sharif's Health Crisis & Leadership Transition

• Health Issues: Nawaz Sharif underwent heart surgery in London, causing temporary political vacuum.
• Successor Debate: Nawaz shared pictures evaluating candidates for the next army chief.
• Candidates: Included General Qamar Javed Bajwa.

General Qamar Javed Bajwa's Early Life and Career

• Background: Born in 1960, joined Pakistan Military Academy at 18, started military career with 16 Baloch Regiment.
• Progression: Held various key positions, including command in Northern Areas and participation in UN mission in Congo.
• Promotions: Became Major General in 2009 and Lieutenant General in 2013.

Selection as Army Chief

• 2016 Selection: Nawaz Sharif chose Bajwa, considering him to be a harmless choice, but rigorous selection process involving other senior officers.
• Controversy: Accusations against Bajwa regarding non-Muslim links, later dismissed.
• Positioning: Strategically removed DG ISI and other influences, promoting own decisions.
• Media Management: Brought in Asif Ghafoor to manage media perceptions.

Bajwa Doctrine

• Objective: Normalize Pakistan to pre-1991 state (pre-Afghan war).
• Execution: Through hybrid regime model blending military and civilian governance.
• Public Interactions: Engaged directly with media contrary to predecessors.

Military Operations

• Zarb-e-Azb to Radd-ul-Fasaad: Continued anti-terror operations but faced resurgence of terrorism.
• Statistics: 1500+ attacks, significant casualties among security forces.

Bajwa's Political Maneuvering

• Initial Support for Imran Khan: Supported PTI, facilitating electoral victories through strategic alliances.
• Shifts: Shifted support away from Nawaz Sharif to Imran Khan.
• Tactical Decisions: Facilitated Sharif’s exit for medical treatment, indicating complex political strategies.
• ISI Leadership Changes: Replacement of Asim Munir with Faiz Hameed, signifying deeper military politics.

Decline and Controversies

• Contradictions: Publicly supported USA against Imran's anti-USA stance, reflecting fractured policies.
• High-profile Meetings: Engaged frequently with US diplomats, affecting Pakistan-China relations.
• Rivalries: Created divides within Pakistani leadership, leading to increased polarization.

Conclusion

• Legacy: Bajwa faced criticism for heavy involvement in politics and inconsistent military policies.
• Future Reflection: Emphasized the need for military to avoid political engagement, but history indicates repeated military interference.
• Controversies: Retiring with unresolved public perception issues, tried to clear name with public statements.

Reflections

• Personal Notes: General sentiments suggest Bajwa’s tenure was marked by both significant achievements and controversies.
• Impact on Pakistan: His actions will remain a critical part of Pakistan's political and military history.