India, Nov. 9 -- A careful look at Pakistan's political history leaves no room for doubt: the reins of power have consistently rested in the hands of those who, while appearing to operate behind the scenes, have in practice overseen every decision, every crisis, and every major shift. Politicians, regardless of era, have donned the trappings of democracy, yet beneath the changing faces and attire, they have continued to perform on the same stage, following the same script a script never authored by the civilian leadership.

To grasp the reality of civilian supremacy in Pakistan, the example of the nominal Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, is far more telling than any extended debate. Outwardly, he is the head of the country's defence affair...