General Asim Munir's family secures influential government positions

General Asim Munir, the new chief of the Pakistan Army, is reportedly increasing the army's influence over government institutions. Allegations of nepotism are rising, as relatives and associates of senior military officials are being appointed to significant positions. Recent reports indicate that Munir’s relatives are benefiting from their connections. They are landing high-profile jobs in important organizations, such as the Pakistan Cricket Board (PCB) and the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA). This trend has raised concerns about fairness and transparency in these appointments. In a report by Ahmed Noorani for Fact Focus, it was revealed that Munir's family members, including his wife and maternal uncle, are allegedly abusing their power. The uncle, Syed Babar Ali Shah, is reportedly involved in major appointments and has been linked to serious allegations of corruption regarding former FIA Director General Ahmed Ishaq Jahangir. One striking example involves Munir's cousin, Hajra Sohail. She began as a scholarship manager at the Pakistan Education Endowment Fund in late 2022. Shortly after Munir became army chief, she was made CEO of the same organization, despite previous hiring procedures being halted by the Prime Minister’s Office. Additionally, Munir’s influence is said to extend to Mohsin Naqvi, who became the chairman of the PCB shortly after being named Chief Minister of Punjab. Naqvi is a close relative of Munir's wife. His swift rise in position has raised eyebrows, prompting discussions about the military’s role in politics and governance in Pakistan.