Pakistan's military, fearing unrest, seeks to control election outcomes, sidelining ex-PM Imran Khan. Khan, jailed on various charges, is barred from elections. The military plans a hybrid regime, where it pulls strings behind a weak political façade. This approach aims to pre-determine outcomes, reminiscent of past failed attempts. Global allies - the US, China, and Saudi Arabia - seemingly align against Khan, making rival Nawaz Sharif a potential acceptable choice. This tactic, however, limits civilian leaders' policy-making abilities and poses risks to regional relations.