Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir has firmly denied any intention of joining politics. Speaking during a meeting with columnist Suhail Warraich in Brussels, Belgium, Munir called himself a “servant of the state” and dismissed all rumours about replacing the President of Pakistan.
“God has made me the protector of the country. I do not desire any position other than that,” Munir said, as reported by Jang media group.
“I am a soldier and my greatest desire is martyrdom,” he added, emphasising his commitment to the military rather than political office.
Rumours of Military Intervention
Munir’s remarks come amid widespread speculation on social media about possible changes in Pakistan’s leadership. Persistent narratives suggested that Munir might replace President Asif Ali Zardari or become politically active. Analysts linked these rumours to the army’s historical involvement in Pakistani politics, further fueling online speculation.
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“The talk started with politics and especially on the rumours that work is being done to change the President of Pakistan and the Prime Minister. General Asim Munir clearly said in the Brussels meeting and the two-hour-long meeting with me that the rumours about the change are completely false,” Warraich wrote in his Saturday column.
Army Confirms Munir Will Not Enter Politics
The Pakistan Army has categorically rejected the claims. On August 7, the army issued a statement calling the rumours “baseless.”
“Talks about Field Marshal Asim Munir becoming the president of Pakistan are completely baseless,” said Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry in an interview with state-run PTV.
Munir’s Promotion to Field Marshal
Munir became just the second military official in Pakistani history to be elevated to the esteemed position of Field Marshal in May. The promotion followed heightened tensions with India after Operation Sindoor and symbolised the army’s confidence in his leadership.
Munir continues to concentrate on his responsibilities in spite of rumours that his military service is connected to political scheming. His remarks make it abundantly evident that national defence, not government, is his priority.
