In a firm rebuttal, the Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has dismissed reports suggesting that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir made political comments about the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) or its jailed leader, Imran Khan, during a recent visit to Brussels. The clarification addresses a controversial article by senior journalist Suhail Warraich, which alleged that the COAS spoke about political reconciliation and PTI at a public event in the Belgian capital.
No Interview or Political Statements by COAS Asim Munir
The DG ISPR, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, clarified that COAS Asim Munir neither granted an interview nor discussed PTI during his Brussels visit. Speaking to journalists, Chaudhry described the claims as fabricated and motivated by personal gain. He noted that the event in Brussels was attended by hundreds, where photographs were taken with the army chief, but no political discussions, including references to PTI or apologies, took place. “The article was a misrepresentation. Media outlets must verify claims before publishing,” Chaudhry stated, urging responsible journalism.
The DG ISPR’s statement counters Warraich’s report, which suggested that Munir had linked political reconciliation to “sincere apologies” from parties involved, implying a reference to PTI and Imran Khan. This narrative emerged amid ongoing tensions following the May 9, 2023, riots, sparked by Khan’s arrest on corruption charges, which saw vandalism of military and state installations. Chaudhry reiterated the military’s consistent stance on the riots, stressing that those responsible, including planners and perpetrators, would face legal accountability.
Military’s Stance on May 9 Riots and Accountability
Under the leadership of COAS Asim Munir, the Pakistan Army has maintained a resolute position on the May 9 violence, which the DG ISPR described as a national issue, not merely a military concern. “Anyone who commits a crime will face the law,” Chaudhry asserted, emphasising that the trials of those involved in the riots, including civilians tried under military courts, are ongoing under the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secret Act. This approach has drawn criticism from human rights groups, who argue that military trials lack transparency and risk miscarriages of justice.
The DG ISPR’s remarks also addressed broader concerns about media responsibility. He expressed regret over the actions of a senior journalist like Warraich, accusing him of crafting a misleading narrative for publicity. “The Pakistan Army is a responsible institution and will not be swayed by such tactics,” Chaudhry added, reinforcing the military’s commitment to its role in national security.
COAS Asim Munir’s Focus on National Security and Foreign Policy
During the Brussels event, COAS Asim Munir focused on Pakistan’s foreign policy and defence strategy, dismissing rumours of leadership changes as “baseless and malicious.” He underscored his role as the protector of the nation, stating, “God has made me the guardian of this country, and I seek no other position.” The army chief also highlighted Pakistan’s delicate balancing act in maintaining relations with global powers like the United States and China, asserting, “We will not sacrifice one friend for another.”
This stance reflects Munir’s broader leadership approach, which has seen him navigate Pakistan through a volatile period, including the 2025 India-Pakistan conflict. His promotion to Field Marshal, a historic first for a serving COAS, was recognised by the government for his leadership during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos, credited with safeguarding national security.
Moving Forward Amid Political Tensions
The DG ISPR’s clarification comes at a time of heightened political friction, with PTI lawmakers and supporters continuing to challenge the military’s influence. The party has demanded a judicial probe into the May 9 riots and the 2024 elections, alleging suppression by the establishment. Despite these tensions, the military remains steadfast in its call for accountability, with Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry and COAS Asim Munir urging unity to address Pakistan’s challenges.
As Pakistan navigates its complex political and security landscape, the DG ISPR’s message underscores the need for responsible reporting and adherence to legal processes. The military’s focus remains on safeguarding the nation, with COAS Asim Munir at the helm, steering Pakistan through turbulent times.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, August 21st, 2025
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