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The bitter rivalry between former Pakistan prime minister Imran Khan and Pakistan Army Chief Asim Munir did not emerge overnight. Its roots trace back to a pivotal episode in 2019—an incident that reshaped civil-military equations and continues to influence Pakistan’s turbulent politics.
The 2019 Flashpoint
In 2019, Asim Munir then serving as Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)—was removed from the post just months into his tenure. The decision, taken during Imran Khan’s premiership, raised eyebrows within security and political circles due to the unusually short stint.
While official explanations were limited, the move was widely viewed as a breakdown of trust between the civilian leadership and the intelligence chief.
What Triggered the Fallout
Sources familiar with the episode suggest Munir had reportedly shared sensitive assessments that did not align with the political leadership’s expectations. The divergence reportedly concerned governance issues and internal power dynamics, leading to tensions that culminated in his removal.
The episode marked a rare moment when a prime minister asserted authority over a senior intelligence appointment—an act that carried long-term consequences.
From Setback to Comeback
Despite the setback, Asim Munir’s career rebounded. He went on to hold key military commands before being appointed Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff in 2022. His elevation placed him at the helm during a period of intense political instability.
For many observers, the appointment also revived memories of the 2019 episode, now viewed through the lens of shifting power balances.
Escalation After Imran Khan’s Exit
Following Imran Khan’s ouster in 2022, relations between the former prime minister and the military establishment deteriorated sharply. Khan’s public criticism of senior generals—unprecedented in tone and frequency—deepened the rift.
As Army Chief, Munir presided over a crackdown on Khan’s party after the May 2023 unrest, cementing perceptions of a personal and institutional showdown.
Why the 2019 Incident Still Matters
Analysts argue that the seeds of today’s confrontation were sown in 2019. The episode underscored fragile trust between civilian leaders and the military’s top brass a recurring fault line in Pakistan’s governance.
The rivalry now symbolizes a broader struggle over authority, accountability, and the military’s role in politics.
The Imran Khan–Asim Munir rivalry is deeply rooted in a 2019 decision that altered careers and recalibrated power equations. As Pakistan continues to navigate political uncertainty, that moment remains a defining chapter—one that helps explain the intensity of today’s confrontation.
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