The new commander of Pakistan’s mighty army was announced on Thursday as Lieutenant-General Asim Munir. The army has traditionally had a significant influence on Pakistan’s internal and foreign policies, which are crucial for the country’s ability to maintain its nuclear arsenal.
Since the country’s independence from Britain in 1947, he will be Pakistan’s 17th army chief. During the same time span, there were around 30 prime ministers. Since its independence, Pakistan’s military, the sixth strongest in the world, has launched three coups and wields excessive power over the country.
After a three-year extension, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, 61, is set to retire on November 29. This puts an end to the anticipation surrounding the important appointment. He no longer intends to request a further extension. The Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee has chosen Lt Gen Sahir Shamshad Mirza to serve in that capacity (CJCSC).
After the appointments, Defense Minister Khawaja Asif told the media that President Arif Alvi had received the “advice,” adding that all had been resolved in accordance with the law and the Constitution.
Things to Know About Lieutenant-General Asim Munir
Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) and Military Intelligence, Pakistan’s two most important intelligence organizations were both led by Lieutenant-General Asim Munir (MI). But when he was succeeded by the former Pakistani prime minister Imran Khan, he held the record for the shortest tenure as the head of the ISI, lasting just eight months.
After departing army head General Qamar Javed Bajwa, Lieutenant-General Asim Muniris is the next highest ranked general.
At the moment, Lieutenant-General Asim Munir is the quartermaster general for the army, in responsibility of managing the supplies for all military formations.
Through the Officers Training School (OTS) in Mangla, Pakistan, Lt. Gen. Munir joined the military.
The function of the institution in a country where the army has a history of overthrowing civilian leaders will also be a topic of discussion for the incoming military chief.
