The Empire of Corruption in Pak's Military Establishment

How does a country teetering on the edge of economic collapse continue to inflate its defense budget without scrutiny? Why do its generals live in palatial estates while its citizens queue for subsidized flour? How can a military that claims to defend its nation actually thrive on internal decay?

- P. MOHAN CHANDRAN

The answer lies buried beneath Pakistan’s khaki-clad power structure — an empire built not just on arms and intimidation, but on unchecked corruption.

The Pakistani military, long seen as the real power behind the throne, has mutated into a sprawling corporate cartel. From agricultural estates and construction conglomerates to media houses and shopping malls, its influence stretches far beyond the battlefield. And at the heart of this expansion lies a cabal of generals who have transformed their command into commerce, and their duty into personal dividends.

The Rise of the “Crore Commanders”

In Pakistan, the term "Core Commander" was meant to evoke discipline, honor, and strategic leadership. Today, it is mockingly replaced by "Crore Commander” — a pun that reveals the extent of rot within the ranks. These are not soldiers of sacrifice, but men of means, building wealth on the backs of a starving nation.

Take General Pervez Musharraf, the self-styled savior of Pakistan who seized power in a 1999 coup. His regime was marked not only by authoritarian overreach but also by personal enrichment. Post-retirement, Musharraf lived lavishly in Dubai and London, his finances untouched by audits or accountability.