Pakistan's Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, a key member of the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-N (PML-N), recently acknowledged that the country is being governed under a 'hybrid model' where the military holds significant power.

This marks the second time this week that Asif, who is part of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's cabinet, has openly spoken about this hybrid model, which has been criticized by analysts as a 'fixed government to serve subsidiary interests'.

During an interview with Arab News, Asif described the civil-military hybrid system as a co-ownership of power, stating that it is not an ideal democratic government. He emphasized that this arrangement is necessary for Pakistan to address economic and governance challenges effectively.

Asif highlighted that adopting this hybrid model back in the 90s could have led to better outcomes, as it would have reduced tensions between the military establishment and the political government, ultimately benefiting democracy.

The Defence Minister also mentioned that compromising with the military is the most realistic option for the PML-N and the Sharif family.

Following a meeting between Pakistan Army chief and US President Donald Trump, Asif described it as a significant moment in the history of relations between the two countries. He attributed this success to the current hybrid model of governance that involves both the elected government and the military.

Opposition leader Imran Khan has been vocal about alleged rigging in the general elections, accusing the PML-N and its allies of stealing the mandate. Asif's recent statements have further fueled criticism, suggesting that the PML-N's commitment to respecting the ballot has been compromised.

Analysts view the current political setup as a 'hybrid regime' where the military plays a dominant role, with major political parties serving as a facade. This has raised concerns about the concentration of power and the future of democracy in Pakistan.

Despite the Defence Minister's praise for the hybrid model, critics argue that it resembles a dictatorship rather than a true hybrid system, with political parties being overshadowed by the military establishment.