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First Post
21-05-2025
- Politics
- First Post
Pak army chief's promotion: Is this Shehbaz Sharif-Asim Munir deal to finish Imran Khan politically?
Pakistan army chief General Asim Munir's promotion to field marshal in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor has provoked disbelief and mirth in many quarters, given the damage India inflicted on the country. But have Munir and Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif cut a deal to keep Imran Khan away from power? read more Pakistan has promoted Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir to rank of Field Marshal. YouTube/ISPR Has Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif cut a deal with Army Chief Asim Munir? Munir's promotion to field marshal provoked disbelief and mirth in many quarters given the damage India inflicted on Pakistan during Operation Sindoor . Which is leading many to suspect that some accommodation was reached between Munir and Sharif behind the scenes to keep jailed ex-prime minister Imran Khan away from power. But what do we know? Let's take a closer look: What happened? Pakistan has promoted Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir to rank of field marshal. As per The Tribune, field marshal is the Pakistan Army's highest honourary rank. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD The five-star position is even above that of a general. It is bestowed on those who display 'extraordinary military leadership and strategic excellence.' A ceremonial but symbolically powerful position modelled on British military tradition, the field-marshal rank carries considerable political and institutional weight in Pakistan, where the military remains the most powerful institution. While the post itself carries no operational authority in Pakistan, it lets the holder keep wearing the uniform even after retirement. It also has privileges such as displaying five stars on his official vehicle and the use of a special baton during salutes. The decision was taken during a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Sharif. 'The Government of Pakistan has approved the promotion of General Syed Asim Munir (Nishan-i-Imtiaz Military) to the rank of field marshal for ensuring the security of the country and defeating the enemy based on the high strategy and courageous leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,' the official statement read, as per the newspaper. Sharif praised Munir's 'exceptional military leadership, bravery, and strategic command.' The development comes just days after India and Pakistan declared a ceasefire following Operation Sindoor – which was launched in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. The decision was taken during a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Shehbaz Sharif. In a statement issued through the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), General Munir expressed his gratitude to the government and the nation. He dedicated the promotion to 'the entire nation, the armed forces of Pakistan, and especially the civil and military martyrs and veterans.' STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'This honour is the trust of the nation, for which millions of Asims have sacrificed themselves,' he added. Pakistan President Asif Ali Zardari said, 'Under General Syed Asim Munir's leadership, the armed forces have successfully defended the homeland.' What do we know? News18 quoted defence sources as saying that Sharif and Munir made a pact. The agreement was for Sharif to promote Munir to field marshal – an extremely rare honour – in exchange for Munir keeping former prime minister Imran Khan away from power. Sharif has also promised to shield Munir from a court martial if Pakistan's failed response to Operation Sindoor comes under scrutiny in the future. Imran and Munir, remember, have a history. Imran, during his stint as prime minister, sacked Munir as ISI chief after relations between the two men soured. Imran has since blamed Munir for his arrest and even accused the army chief of trying to do away with him. Munir is now just the second Pakistan Army chief to be appointed Field Marshal – after General Mohammad Ayub Khan. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD Munir is also known to idolise General Zia-ul-Haq – another man who became dictator by overthrowing the Pakistani government and hanging Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. Sources said that the development shows the increasing dominance of the Pakistani military over the civilian government under Sharif. Indian intelligence added that the development confirms their belief that Munir is the one in charge of the government and not Sharif. Imran, Khan who has been in jail for over two years, has accused Asim Munir of ordering his arrest in a corruption case. They pointed to the fact that US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reached out to Munir on May 10 to ask Pakistan to halt hostilities with India. Sources also said Munir is increasingly trying to get the Pakistani public on his side after the failed operation against India – which they are trying to frame as a victory. Unlike Ayub, who promoted himself to the rank of field marshal in 1959 following his coup in Pakistan the previous year, Munir was appointed to the position by the civilian government. However, some in Indian defence circles think Munir may have promoted himself to assert his supremacy in Pakistan and send a sign that he is not prepared to hang up his uniform anytime soon, as per News18. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD This development comes after some people close to Imran had criticised Munir for the conflict with India. Those close to Imran had blamed the military's 'high-handedness' and 'personal ambitions' for the conflict. Munir, as one might recall, had called Kashmir Pakistan's 'jugular vein' during a speech in April. 'Our stance is very clear, it was our jugular vein, it will be our jugular vein, and we will not forget it. We will not leave our Kashmiri brothers in their heroic struggle," Munir said in the speech attended by Sharif. Munir's also made a provocative speech prior to the Pahalgam terror attack – which has come under scrutiny by Indian authorities – in which he reemphasised Muhammad Ali Jinnah's two nation theory. What do experts say? That Munir and the Pakistan Army hold all the cards. 'Saddled with a sinking economy that survives on foreign bailouts, runaway inflation, home-grown insurgency and popular outrage over the jailing of Imran, Gen Munir possibly sought to deflect attention with his provocative anti-India statements. Pahalgam happened soon after, suggesting the two were linked. Imran's fallout with the army had eroded the latter's clout. Under Gen Munir, the militablishment is back in control of the nation,' a piece in New Indian Express noted. STORY CONTINUES BELOW THIS AD 'Gen Munir is heading what is being called a hybrid government. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has little say in policy matters. People know that the most powerful man sits in Rawalpindi, not Islamabad,' it concluded. A piece in Deccan Herald stated that Munir clearly has the upper hand in any conflict with Khan, nothing that 'everyone knows who is calling the shots' in Pakistan. It noted that while protests can overthrow the government in Pakistan, this only occurs with the aid of the army. 'The last Pakistani politician who succeeded in touching a popular chord and came close to Khan's levels of popularity was Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. It did not end well for him,' the piece added. With inputs from agencies
Express Tribune
21-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
General's star rises to marshal skies
Listen to article The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the elevation of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal in recognition of his exceptional military leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, which successfully repelled recent Indian aggression and safeguarded national sovereignty. The decision, taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, marks a rare move in Pakistan's military history. The rank of Field Marshal – the highest in the army – is traditionally reserved for outstanding wartime leadership and valour. The elevation follows a decisive military response to cross-border hostilities earlier this month. An official statement issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) attributed 'Field Marshal Asim Munir' expressing his gratitude upon receiving the new title, saying he was thankful to Allah Almighty and dedicated the honour to the entire nation, the Pakistan Armed Forces and particularly to the civilian and military martyrs and veterans. "This is not an individual honour but one for the Pakistan Armed Forces and the nation as a whole," the ISPR statement quoted Field Marshal Asim Munir as saying. He also thanked the president, the prime minister and the cabinet for their trust, saying that the "honour is a responsibility entrusted to me by the nation, and millions of Asims are ready to sacrifice themselves to uphold it". He also thanked the nation. In a related decision, the federal cabinet also agreed unanimously to extend the tenure of Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu, whose term was nearing completion, citing the continuity of defence leadership as critical to national security. An official statement issued after the meeting stated that the promotion was given in line with the army chief's leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos, which was launched in response to an unprovoked attack by Indian forces in the night of May 6 and 7. The operation had successfully disrupted the offensive and safeguarded key strategic and civilian areas. The cabinet noted that Pakistan's sovereignty and territorial integrity were challenged, and credited the Armed Forces of Pakistan with executing a coordinated and effective defence. General Asim Munir played a central role in directing the response, it said. The cabinet congratulated the entire nation on a decisive victory in the 'Battle for Truth', referring to Marka-e-Haq – the military's victorious defence against a sudden and unprovoked assault by India during the first week on May. The cabinet statements said that Indian forces launched an unjustified and aggressive campaign, targeting civilian areas and attempting to violate Pakistan's territorial integrity. General Munir, praised for his courage, strategic acumen and cohesive command, was credited with uniting the armed forces under a synchronised military strategy that decisively thwarted the enemy's ambitions. The cabinet declared that his "unparalleled leadership" ensured a historic national success and merited the rare promotion to Field Marshal, a title conferred only once before in Pakistan's history. Prime Minister Shehbaz personally briefed President Asif Zardari on the decision, securing his confidence on the move. The cabinet also decided that officers and personnel of the Pakistan Armed Forces, veterans, martyrs and Pakistani citizens from various sectors, would be awarded high-level state honours in recognition of their valuable services during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. In a separate statement, meanwhile, Prime Minister Shehbaz extended heartfelt congratulations to the army chief on his promotion to the rank of Field Marshal. He said that during Marka-e-Haq, General Asim Munir's leadership and professional abilities thwarted the enemy's malicious intentions. Shehbaz added that General Asim Munir has been endowed with exceptional qualities by Almighty Allah and his courage, perseverance and wisdom played a key role in the success of Operation Bunyanum Marsoos. He reiterated that army chief's promotion was in recognition of his valuable services in defending the homeland and for taking steps to maintain the balance of power in the region. He acknowledged that from the army chief to every soldier who gave a decisive response to the enemy's aggression along the borders during Marka-e-Haq, all served bravely in defence of the country. The prime minister stressed that the entire nation, including himself, took pride in the army chief and the veterans, martyrs and families of the brave armed forces under his leadership. President Asif Zardari congratulated the army chief on his promotion to Field Marshal, praising his role in responding to the unprovoked Indian aggression and thwarting hostile intentions. "The rank of Field Marshal is recognition of your services in defence of the country," the president said. He commended Field Marshal Asim Munir and the armed forces for their effective response to Indian attacks, calling their strategy under the army chief's leadership as decisive and effective. The president also acknowledged his contributions to national security, sovereignty and the fight against terrorism. The president also congratulated Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu on the extension of his tenure, crediting his leadership for a strong air response and a clear defeat of the Indian Air Force. The president extended his best wishes to both Field Marshal Asim Munir and Air Chief Marshal Sidhu. The decision to elevate Gen Asim to the rank of Field Marshal was hailed by people from all walks of life. Sindh Chief Minister Murad Ali Shah warmly welcomed the promotion of COAS Gen Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal, extending his heartfelt congratulations on this prestigious honour. Earlier, Shehbaz had declared May 10 to be observed annually as Youm-e-Ma'raka-e-Haq (Day of the Battle for Truth), marking the country's resounding success in Operation Bunyanum Marsoos against India. Shehbaz had also unveiled substantial financial compensation packages for both civilians and military personnel affected during the Pakistan-India war. Operation Bunyanum Marsoos was launched by Pakistan on May 10, 2025, as a retaliatory response to unprovoked Indian aggression, including missile strikes on Pakistani airbases and civilian areas. The operation, named after a Quranic term meaning "solid structure," aimed at neutralising key Indian military installations and demonstrate Pakistan's military resolve. Following Indian attacks, the Armed Forces of Pakistan targeted India's BrahMos missile storage facility in Beas, airbases in Udhampur and Pathankot, and a military intelligence training facility in Rajouri. Pakistan's armed forces also shot down at least five Indian fighter jets, including three Rafale aircraft. The downing of the jets, particularly the Rafales, was a notable development, as it was the first confirmed combat loss of the French-made aircraft. Pakistan's strong response had soon drawn international attention, with global powers urging both nations to de-escalate tensions and avoid further military confrontations. Subsequently, upon US President Donald Trump's intervention, both sides had agreed to a ceasefire, which was still in place. President Trump had also urged both sides to hold talks to settle their longstanding issues, including the Kashmir issue.
India.com
20-05-2025
- Politics
- India.com
Despite biting dust against India in Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's Shehbaz Sharif govt promotes Army Chief Asim Munir to…, becomes first army general to…
Despite biting dust in Operation Sindoor, Pakistan's Shehbaz Sharif govt promotes Army Chief Asim Munir to... Asim Munir promoted: Pakistan government on Tuesday decided to promote Army Chief General Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal for his role in the recent conflict with India, making him the second top military officer in the country's history to be elevated to the position. The decision to promote Gen Munir was taken at a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, according to an official statement. Munir is the first army general since General Ayub Khan to be elevated to the highest military rank in Pakistan. General Khan was conferred the rank of Field Marshal in 1959. 'The Government of Pakistan has approved the promotion of Gen Asim Munir (Nishan-e-Imtiaz Military) to the rank of Field Marshal for ensuring the security of the country and defeating the enemy based on the high strategy and courageous leadership,' the prime minister's office said. Gen Munir's promotion to the largely ceremonial rank came over a week-and-half after the Indian and Pakistani militaries reached an understanding on cessation of military actions after four days of intense hostilities. The Indian military has been maintaining that Pakistan pleaded for stopping the military actions after India hit eight military installations in Pakistan on early May 10 in response to Pakistan's attempts to target Indian military bases. The PMO said in the statement that Gen Munir led the army 'with exemplary courage and determination and coordinated the war strategy and efforts of the armed forces in a comprehensive manner'. In recognition of his 'outstanding' military leadership, the cabinet approved the prime minister's proposal to promote Gen Munir to the rank of Field Marshal, the statement said. The statement added that Prime Minister Shehbaz met President Asif Ali Zardari and took him into confidence regarding this decision. It also said the government unanimously decided to continue the services of Air Chief Marshal Zahar Ahmed Babar Sidhu after his term ends. Tribute to armed forces and people of Pakistan: Munir Earlier, the state-run PTV reported that the cabinet took the important decision to 'promote General Asim Munir as Field Marshal' of the country. 'This is not a personal achievement, but a tribute to the armed forces and the people of Pakistan,' Munir said in a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). He extended thanks to the president, prime minister, and the federal cabinet for their trust in him, emphasising that the honour is a national trust that demands the highest sacrifice. 'Millions of Asims are ready to lay down their lives to uphold it,' he added. General Munir, who headed both powerful spy agencies – the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and the Military Intelligence (MI) – assumed charge as the Army chief in November 2022. He succeeded General Qamar Javed Bajwa, who retired after two consecutive three-year terms. Munir was commissioned into the Frontier Force Regiment. After years of service, he was appointed chief of Military Intelligence in early 2017, and in October next year was made the ISI chief. However, his stint as the top intelligence officer turned out to be the shortest ever, as he was replaced by Lt-Gen Faiz Hamid within eight months, on the insistence of then Prime Minister Imran Khan. He was then posted as Gujranwala Corps commander, a position he held for two years, before being moved to the GHQ as Quartermaster General. Previously, Ayub Khan, who ruled the country from 1958 to 1969 and also led the country in the 1965 war with India, was promoted to the rank of Field Marshal. However, what makes the promotion of General Munir different is that Khan was ruling the country after imposing martial law and in a way himself responsible for his elevation. (With Agency inputs)
Express Tribune
20-05-2025
- Politics
- Express Tribune
Army chief Asim Munir promoted to rank of field marshal
The federal cabinet on Tuesday approved the promotion of Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of field marshal. Field Marshal Asim Munir expressed deep gratitude to Allah Almighty upon being conferred the rank of Field Marshal, dedicating the honour to the entire nation, the Pakistan Armed Forces, and especially to the martyrs and veterans—both civil and military. 'This is not a personal achievement, but a tribute to the armed forces and the people of Pakistan,' said Field Marshal Munir in a statement released by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). He extended thanks to the President, Prime Minister, and the federal cabinet for their trust, emphasising that the honour is a national trust that demands the highest sacrifice. 'Millions of Asims are ready to lay down their lives to uphold it,' he added.
