Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Chairman Gohar Ali Khan has extended congratulations to Chief of Army Staff General Asim Munir on his promotion to the rank of field marshal. Gohar emphasized that the new title brings with it greater responsibility to help improve the country’s current situation.
The federal government recently elevated Gen Munir in recognition of his “strategic leadership and decisive role” during a military standoff with India, which concluded with a US-brokered ceasefire. The field marshal rank is the highest in armies modeled after the British system and has been awarded in Pakistan only once before—to General Mohammad Ayub Khan in 1959.
Speaking to media outside Adiala Jail in Rawalpindi after meeting imprisoned former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Gohar said: “It’s been a long time. PTI is a major political party and Khan sahib is the most popular leader. We want these challenges to be resolved now.”
He added, “We’ve extended our congratulations on this honor, but with it comes a heavier responsibility for the army chief to play a stronger role in improving the situation.”
When asked about PTI’s official stance, Gohar said a formal statement would be issued. He stressed that PTI has no conflict with the military, quoting Imran Khan’s recent remarks supporting the armed forces and stating that those associated with them should remain neutral and above controversy.
Gohar also said that although communication with the military establishment hasn’t resumed, PTI is open to dialogue. “Khan sahib has always maintained that we never shut the door to talks with the establishment.”
These comments reflect sentiments expressed in a post from Imran Khan’s X (formerly Twitter) account, where he stated his willingness to engage with those in power for the country’s welfare.
On the subject of military involvement in politics, Gohar reiterated that the institution should remain apolitical. “It’s a significant institution with a lasting impact. I appeal to those who can help improve the situation to do so.”
Gen Munir’s promotion was approved by the federal cabinet and formally conveyed to President Asif Ali Zardari by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. This marks the first such promotion in over 60 years.
In another high-level military move, the government granted a second, indefinite extension to Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, making him the first Pakistan Air Force chief to receive two extensions.
Discussing regional tensions, Gohar said a “war-like atmosphere” still persists with India. He praised the Pakistani military for achieving an “unimaginable” victory, adding, “This conflict was arguably more serious than those in 1965 or 1971, considering both nations are now nuclear powers.” He urged national unity and vigilance against potential future threats from India.
Military Hierarchy and Legal Context
According to a Ministry of Defence notification, Gen Munir’s promotion was made under Rule 199A of the Army Regulations (Rules) 1998. Although these rules are classified, a military source explained that Rule 199A allows the federal government to promote any general officer—serving or retired—to field marshal, regardless of seniority or position.
However, legal analysts have pointed out that neither the Constitution nor the Pakistan Army Act explicitly mentions this rank.
While the position does not carry additional operational authority, the timing of its conferral amidst domestic instability and regional tensions is seen as strategically significant. It may enhance Field Marshal Munir’s influence within the military and political domains.
Senator Mushahid Hussain Syed, former chairman of the Senate defence committee, remarked: “Field Marshal Asim Munir is now firmly at the center of the power structure, especially given the fragmentation among civilian political leaders. Even before May—an important turning point for Pakistan and the region—most political forces acknowledged that the road to Islamabad runs through Rawalpindi.”
Globally, such promotions are largely symbolic. India’s Field Marshals Sam Manekshaw and K.M. Cariappa, as well as five-star generals in the UK and US, were elevated for ceremonial purposes without any change to operational roles.
