Altaf Hussain warns of 'silent struggle' between Pakistan military and President Zardari

Self-exiled British-Pakistani politician Altaf Hussain has alleged a "silent struggle" is underway between Pakistan's powerful military establishment and President Asif Ali Zardari, warning that a debate over creating new provinces could push the country into a major political and security crisis.

The founder of the Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) claimed that discussions were underway on a possible 28th Constitutional Amendment, which could include provisions for the creation of new provinces. “Discussions on the creation of new provinces have been raised by interior minister Mohsin Naqvi and DG-ISPR. The proposed constitutional changes reflect growing differences between President Asif Ali Zardari and the military leadership. A political deadlock could lead to serious constitutional consequences, including the imposition of martial law or the formation of an interim government,” Hussain said in a TikTok message on September 2.

Referring to the earlier 26th and 27th Amendments, he alleged that political parties had previously reached agreements to facilitate their passage. Hussain also questioned the prolonged foreign stay of Zardari, the husband of slain former Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto and father of ex-foreign minister Bilawal Bhutto Zardari.

"The President had travelled to Austria in connection for his son Bilawal Zardari’s wedding and is currently in London. There was also an hour-long meeting between Zardari and Naqvi in London, claiming that an important message was conveyed to the President," he added.

Hussain further cautioned that tensions between the Pakistan military and Sindhi nationalist groups could escalate into widespread unrest. Referring to the situation in Balochistan, Hussain said violence between security forces and Baloch fighters was continuing and called for greater political consideration for the Baloch people. He warned that if Pakistan descended into a broader civil conflict, foreign powers, including the US and UK, would not come to its rescue, and urged Pakistanis to heed his warnings.