Pakistan Army chief Asim Munir formally elevated as Chief of Defence Force

Position effectively secured for life
Permanent immunity from arrest
Vast, unchecked powers granted

Islamabad (Pakistan) – Pakistan’s Army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has now been officially elevated to the newly created role of Chief of Defence Force (CDF), a position meant to bring tighter coordination between the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The Prime Minister’s Office confirmed that Shehbaz Sharif had sent Munir’s name to President Asif Ali Zardari for approval, which has now been granted.

The CDF role carries a five-year term. In the same round of decisions, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar has been given a two-year service extension.

Munir’s rise has been steep and politically loaded. During India’s ‘Operation Sindoor’, he publicly pushed the false narrative that Pakistan had “defeated India”. That claim reportedly pleased the Sharif government enough for him to be promoted to Field Marshal — a move that handed Munir extraordinary authority, which he continues to enjoy.

Pakistanis themselves push back

Munir’s new appointment has sparked protests across Pakistan. He was first made Army chief in 2022, and his tenure was extended for another five years in 2024.

Editorial Perspective

Putting this kind of power in Munir’s hands is nothing short of reckless. Given his open hostility towards India, New Delhi should firmly put him in his place and make it clear that any misadventure will be dealt with decisively.