Pakistan's Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has publicly described the country's governance system as a "hybrid model," characterized by a power-sharing arrangement between civilian leaders and the military. He acknowledged that while the Prime Minister makes decisions independently, these are made in consultation with the military establishment at all levels. Asif emphasized that this hybrid system is not an ideal democratic government but asserted that it has been effective and necessary for Pakistan, particularly in addressing economic and governance challenges. He noted that this arrangement has been in place for the past three years. The comments come amid broader concerns about the state of democracy in Pakistan, with some critics, including former Prime Minister Imran Khan, arguing that the judiciary has been compromised and the political system manipulated to favor non-elected interests. Khan described the judiciary as a subordinate to the government and accused the political system of being controlled by a status quo that undermines public representation and basic services. Senior journalist Hamid Mir highlighted the hybrid system's transformation towards authoritarianism, questioning whether Pakistan's 1973 constitution remains in effect. The defense minister's candid remarks are notable given the military's influential role in Pakistan's political landscape and coincide with the army chief's independent visit to the United States.