Field Marshal Asim Munir dismisses rumours of leadership change
God made me this country’s guardian: COAS
Chief of Army Staff Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir circulating rumours about his future role said describing circulating rumours as completely false and against both the government and the establishment.
In an exclusive conversation with senior journalist Sohail Warraich in Brussels, Field Marshal Munir dismissed recent speculations about changes in Pakistan’s leadership, calling them “completely false.” He said those spreading such rumours are opposed to both the government and the ruling elite.
“I am the protector of this country by God’s will, and I do not seek any other position,” he asserted, reinforcing his commitment to national duty. He emphasised that political reconciliation is only possible through genuine apologies from all parties involved.
In July, rumours began to circulate that President Asif Ali Zardari may be asked to step down and that the COAS would take over the top office. However, top government officials — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi — rejected such claims.
“Field Marshal Asim Munir has never expressed any desire to become the president, nor is there any such plan in the offing,” PM Shehbaz had said, while Naqvi called it a “malicious campaign” targeting President Zardari, the premier, and the army chief.
During his interaction with the senior journalist, Field Marshal Munir also highlighted Pakistan’s long-standing experience in maintaining balanced relations with China and the United States. He said: “We will not sacrifice one friend for the sake of another.”
The army chief noted that political reconciliation could be achieved through sincere apologies. He highlighted the importance of unity and dialogue in strengthening Pakistan’s democratic institutions and political stability.
He also praised US President Donald Trump’s desire for peace, noting Pakistan’s initiative in recommending Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize as an example of proactive diplomacy that is now being recognized globally.
“Pakistan took the initiative in recommending the Nobel Prize for [President] Trump, now the rest of the world is following suit,” he remarked.
Regarding regional security, Field Marshal Munir warned that India should not attempt to destabilise Pakistan through proxies.
The army chief praised Prime Minister Shehbaz for his dedication, including working 18-hour days during the war, and lauded the government and cabinet for demonstrating remarkable resolve during challenging times.
India has escalated its proxy war against Pakistan following its defeat in “Marka-e-Haq” — the days-long military conflict between the two nuclear neighbours — and is using Fitna-al-Khawarij and Fitna-al-Hindustan to advance its nefarious designs.
He also called on the Afghan government to halt policies that push the Taliban into Pakistan, and reaffirmed that the blood of every Pakistani is a responsibility the state must uphold.