Dr. Michael Marke’s books, “No Exit from Pakistan” and “USA’s Strategy for Pakistan & Afghanistan,” shed light on the US policy to keep Pakistan engaged but controlled since the 1950s. CIA’s involvement in Pakistan’s internal affairs, including the division of Pakistan in 1971 and destabilization through proxy wars, is detailed in his second book.
The attempt to execute a plan on May 9, 2023, to undermine Gen Asim Munir’s leadership and trigger economic collapse was thwarted. The subsequent crackdown has led to the arrest of perpetrators, exposing internal and external conspiracies.
The decision to expel over 4 million Afghan refugees, a significant security and economic burden, is a bold move by Gen Asim Munir and the interim government. Despite external pressures, they are focused on addressing chronic issues before the upcoming elections on February 8.
The political landscape is marred by conspiracies as PML-N, PPP, fractured PTI factions, and smaller parties vie for power. Imran Khan’s disqualification and imprisonment have shifted political dynamics, with PML-N making strategic alliances and PPP seeking a level playing field.
The elections, touted as a solution to Pakistan’s challenges, may prove ineffective without comprehensive reforms. Calls for reforms in electoral, judicial, bureaucratic, police, education, economic, and moral domains are essential for meaningful and purposeful elections.
