Recent speculations regarding the possibility of Field Marshal Asim Munir, the current Chief of Army Staff (COAS), taking over as President of Pakistan have been categorically denied by Director General Inter Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lt. General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry. In an exclusive interview with The Economist, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry has labeled these claims as “entirely false,” putting an end to the wave of rumours and political debates that followed the so-called “Battle of Truth.”
Firm Denial from Military Leadership
Addressing the issue, DG ISPR Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry took a clear and unequivocal stance. He stated, “These claims are completely baseless,” in response to the mounting speculation about Field Marshal Asim Munir’s alleged political ambitions. The DG ISPR’s comments directly contradicted the theories that have been circulating in media and political circles, dismissing them as unfounded and misleading.
The rumours gained traction following the “Battle of Truth,” a term being used by some commentators to describe the recent political and military developments in the country. However, the military spokesperson was quick to clarify that there is no truth in reports suggesting a shift in Field Marshal Asim Munir’s role from military leadership to the presidency.
Rejection of Political Commentary
The DG ISPR also addressed the political commentaries and analyses that followed the “Battle of Truth.” He emphasized that such speculation is not only incorrect but also potentially detrimental to the country’s stability. By firmly rejecting these narratives, the military leadership has made it clear that the institution remains committed to its constitutional role and is not seeking a direct hand in the country’s political leadership.
Strong Response to Regional Security Concerns
During the interview, Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry was also asked about Pakistan’s possible reaction to any Indian military action. His response was unequivocal: “This time, we will begin from the East of India.” He further warned, “The response will start with a deep strike inside India.” This statement underlines the seriousness with which Pakistan’s military leadership views regional threats and highlights their commitment to defending the country against any external aggression.
DG ISPR’s remarks serve as a reminder to India that Pakistan retains the capability and resolve to respond decisively to any hostile acts. He stressed, “India must understand that they too can be targeted anywhere.” The strong commitment to respond militarily to what he described as “Modi’s terrorist attacks” highlights the ongoing tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
Support from Political Leadership
The military’s rejection of rumours about Field Marshal Asim Munir’s political ambitions has also been echoed by political leaders. Last month, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi publicly dismissed similar stories, terming them “completely baseless and harmful to national stability.” In a public statement, Naqvi condemned the so-called “negative campaign” that he said was targeting President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the army chief.
Naqvi attributed the spread of these rumours to “hostile elements and foreign agencies,” alleging that these forces are attempting to undermine political stability and institutional harmony in Pakistan. Such statements from both the military and civilian leadership highlight a united front against disinformation and attempts to create rifts among key state institutions.
Maintaining Institutional Harmony
The strong and coordinated response from both military and political leaders demonstrates a commitment to upholding institutional harmony in Pakistan. The repeated dismissal of these rumours is intended to assure the public and deter any further attempts to destabilize the nation through baseless speculation.
