For decades Pakistan military has attempted to control the government. The country’s new Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, is helping it enforce its centrality in Pakistani politics. He has granted the ISI spy agency vetting power over civil service appointments. This article by Shah Meer Baloch is published by The Guardian. Here is an excerpt:

Pakistani politicians and activists have raised fears about the military increasing its control over the country’s public life after the new prime minister, Shehbaz Sharif, gave the ISI spy agency vetting power over civil service appointments.

The move has placed the verification and screening of government officials in charge of postings, appointments and promotions in ISI hands, leading to concerns of a shrunken civilian space.

Pakistan’s powerful military, which ruled the country directly for three decades, and its premier intelligence agency have a long history of meddling in politics and controlling politicians.

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