Dozens of reports in Pakistani and international media have pointed to an alleged internal rift in Rawalpindi since General Asim Munir assumed a central role in Pakistan’s military leadership. The tensions have now come under fresh scrutiny after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif publicly took to social media to flag a mass exodus of bureaucrats seeking to settle abroad even while continuing to serve in government.
Pakistan's Defence Minister alleges that several senior bureaucrats planned to settle abroad while still in government service, raising questions over their commitment to the country and the accountability of powerful officials.
Asif has raised concerns over what he describes as a growing trend of senior bureaucrats moving abroad, claiming that several officials made plans to settle in foreign countries while still serving the government.
The statement from the top official comes amid reports of the expanding influence of the Army Chief in Pakistan’s political and administrative affairs, with questions emerging over the strength of elected Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's government.
Khawaja Asif raises questions over bureaucrats' loyalty
In a post on social media platform X, Asif claimed that several Pakistani bureaucrats had established permanent homes in countries including Canada, the United States, the United Kingdom and other European nations over the past few years.
According to the minister, some officials allegedly began preparing for their relocation while holding government positions. He questioned whether such officers remained fully committed to their official responsibilities and the country during their tenure.
Asif also suggested that Portugal had become a preferred destination for Pakistani bureaucrats seeking permanent residency abroad.
He said that some of the officials reportedly linked to these arrangements had occupied influential positions and enjoyed close relationships with successive governments.
Residency arrangements under scrutiny
The defence minister further alleged that an individual who facilitated permanent residency arrangements for bureaucrats had fled after collecting substantial sums of money from them.
However, Asif did not identify the person concerned or provide documentary evidence to substantiate the allegation.
He also questioned the conduct of officials who, according to him, had enjoyed political patronage and opportunities to accumulate wealth while serving in senior government positions.
The minister’s comments have renewed debate over overseas assets, possible conflicts of interest and the need for greater transparency among Pakistan’s senior public officials.
The claims have not been independently verified, and it remains unclear how many serving or former bureaucrats may be involved.
Asim Munir's growing role in Pakistan's power structure
The controversy has emerged against the backdrop of continuing discussion over the balance of power between Pakistan’s civilian government and its military leadership.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s administration is widely viewed as operating in a political environment where the armed forces retain considerable influence. Munir’s growing prominence has further intensified scrutiny of the relationship between elected leaders and the military establishment.
Pakistan's political system has historically witnessed a strong military role in governance, security and major policy decisions. This has frequently raised questions about the autonomy of civilian institutions, including the bureaucracy.
Asif's claims have brought an additional dimension to the debate, focusing attention on whether influential officials have confidence in the country’s long-term political and economic future.
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