AN interesting debate is going on in the media about the unprecedented criticism aimed at the army’s high command in recent months.

Concern has been expressed by certain sections of the media about such criticism weakening the Pakistan army and being detrimental to the interests of Pakistan.

This viewpoint is flawed and assumes that criticism aimed at the military high command is based on malicious intent.

In fact, much of the criticism in recent months and years against the army’s high command has emerged from the same concern which has been presented by those who are displeased with this criticism that the policies pursued by the army high command is weakening the institution of the army itself.

Such criticism is aimed at protecting the army’s institution rather than weakening it. As long as criticism is directed against policies and results from a genuine concern amongst the people, such criticism is healthy and constructive.

An understanding of the operational functioning of the army makes it only natural that such criticism would be aimed at the military high command as they are the one who exercise authority over the armed forces. To argue for prohibiting such criticism may actually result in weakening the institution of the army and is against the concept of accountability.

MOEZ MOBEEN Islamabad