Pakistan Politics & Military affairs.
Pakistan’s Director-General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Major General Asim Iftikhar, strongly denied recent reports regarding rumors regarding the appointment of a military officer – particularly a field marshal – as president, labeling such speculation “nonsense” and an attempt at creating unnecessary political controversy.
Major General Iftikhar issued a direct public statement on Monday in which he refuted discussions that have gained steam within some political and media circles about whether Pakistani military officials may consider promoting one of their senior officers to president, which some analysts have speculated could result in shifting political dynamics within Pakistan.
Major General Iftikhar stated at a press conference at ISPR headquarters in Rawalpindi that such speculations are both baseless and irresponsible, since their role is to uphold sovereignty and integrity for Pakistan and not decide who becomes president through military maneuvering.
Rumors first surfaced following a period of political unrest, with widespread demonstrations and criticism directed at civilian government’s handling of economic and security challenges. As a result, speculation rose that some factions within the military might seek more prominent roles in governance — with perhaps even an officer serving in this capacity taking up ceremonial presidency duties.
Pakistan’s history of military rule calls to mind any time an officer carries out such duties, with direct military involvement being central to post-independence governance for much of post-independence period ranging from General Ayub Khan’s 1958 military coup until General Pervez Musharraf seized control after 1999 coup attempt; though since his departure in 2008 there has been some return to civilian governance while still playing an essential role in national security and foreign policy matters.
Politicos have noted that talk of military figures serving as president may be seen by certain quarters as an attempt to exert pressure on the government as they address deteriorating economic circumstances, high inflation rates, and an unemployment crisis. Furthermore, Pakistan continues to grapple with law and order issues, particularly in regions like Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa where security concerns remain high.
Even amid reports of possible military intervention in the presidency, many political leaders have dismissed such speculations outright. Bilawal Bhutto-Zardari of Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) claimed such allegations are part of an attempt to undermine democracy processes in Pakistan: “Pakistan’s constitution and democratic institutions must be respected; presidential office belongs solely to its constituents – no individual should try and dominate our democracy”, stated Bilawal.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and his ruling party expressed confidence in democracy to triumph. A government spokesperson expressed this viewpoint by noting: “People of Pakistan have always elected their leaders through ballot box and any attempt at destabilization will be counteracted.”
DG ISPR’s statement comes at a time when Pakistani military leadership is already being scrutinized over their involvement in politics, with many calling for clear separation between military duties and civilian governance. Pakistani military leadership has repeatedly stated their support of civilian governments; however, critics argue that their involvement extends far beyond national security issues.
As Pakistan prepares for its presidential elections set for later this year, political observers will closely scrutinize any effects from recent speculation on Pakistan’s political future or if they quickly fade away. For now, however, Pakistan’s military has made their position clear: any talk of military figures running for presidency are dismissed as “nonsense.”