Pakistan’s air force chief, Air Chief Marshal (ACM) Zaheer Ahmed Baber Sidhu, has been granted a one-year extension to his term, triggering controversy due to corruption allegations levelled against him by senior colleagues. This news comes as several of those same senior officers, who acted as whistleblowers, now face court-martial proceedings while under house arrest. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif took the decision on March 17,2024.There were reports that ACM Sidhu had been lobbying for an extension.
Sidhu’s three-year tenure was to expire on March 18, 2024. He was appointed CAS on March 18 2021 with the backing of the then Army chief, General Qamar Javed Bajwa. He would be the second chief in Pakistan Air Force history who would be getting an extension. Earlier, Air Chief Marshall Anwar Shamim Khan had got full term extension during the military government of Gen Ziaul Haq in 1981.
The extension for ACM Sidhu has raised concerns about transparency and accountability within the Pakistan Air Force (PAF). Critics allege that the decision protects those in power while silencing dissent. Conversely, supporters of the extension claim it provides stability and continuity in the face of regional security challenges.
The specifics of the corruption allegations against ACM Sidhu remain unclear. However, media leaks suggest they involve procurement irregularities related to fighter jet purchases or upgrades. These are significant accusations, as the PAF is entrusted with safeguarding Pakistan’s airspace and relies on modern, well-maintained fighter jets to fulfil its mission. These allegations were contained in an anonymous white paper on corruption published on a blog last year.
Whistleblowers Face Backlash:
The most disturbing aspect of this situation is the treatment of the senior officers who came forward with the corruption allegations. Instead of investigating the claims, it appears the whistleblowers themselves are being targeted. Their house arrest and court-martial proceedings seem designed to silence dissent rather than address potential wrongdoing.
Impact on Pakistan Air Force:
This controversy casts a shadow over the professionalism and reputation of the PAF. If left unaddressed, it could erode public trust in the institution and potentially demoralize its rank and file. Furthermore, focusing on internal conflict could divert attention from critical issues like pilot training, modernization programs, and regional security threats.
March 17, 2024
Source: Daily Pakistan