Imran Khan and Pakistan’s Sacred Games With Democracy.

As Pakistan’s new Prime Minister took oath of office about 10 weeks ago. A new era of Pakistan’s gamble with democracy begun. Widely believed to be backed by the army and the deep state, Imran Khan is said to be the “establishment’s” man in the hot seat.

The 10 weeks have passed since the flamboyant former cricket took office. He took some popular steps to keep the momentum manufactured during the largely lopsided election campaign (Many prominent leaders like Sharifs were in jail).

Let us briefly examine what lies behind the scenes on why Imran was chosen to be the next PM and the “Establishment’s” sacred games with democracy.

It is no secret that Pakistan is controlled by all powerful army and it runs the whole show there. Imran Khan’s ascendance to the chair marks the only 2nd successive democratic transition in power (even so on paper).

Reasons why he was chosen:

1. Sharif was largely a man of his own mind cautious of generals and uniformed (especially after the coup by Gen. Musharaff). Imran Khan represents a more amicable player when it comes to the establishment.
2. He represents a modern and fresh face who can be easily put forth to a largely suffering populace. (poverty, looming forex and financial crisis, terrorism etc) .
3. He makes a perfect cover for the charade of democracy who can puppeteer army’s line in the wake of increasing international pressure on Pakistan.
4. He can be dumped at will if the situation demands by some Imran Khan 2 in future.
5. Can be blamed for all ills and failures and made to take flack so that the establishment can deviate the blame.
6. He can act as the dovish face for the sake of peace and co-operation while the army can continue with its dirty business in the background.

While the 10 weeks just show the honeymoon period of the new Government in Office. The real test would lay in the substance on the front of economy, terrorism and whether he gets things back on track. Auctions etc of Govt property and exhibition of being austere would do little to get economy on track, but serves the purpose for the time for public consumption.