ISLAMABAD – Pakistan is witnessing political and constitutional stir as the long-awaited notification for the appointment of the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) remains pending, fueling speculation, conspiracy theories, and legal debates.
All eyes are on federal government to officially announce replacement under the newly created position of CDF, introduced through the 27th constitutional amendment. But by November 29, no notification had been issued, raising eyebrows across political and media circles.
Amid buzz, Federal Minister Hanif Abbasi announced that General Asim Munir is the Chief of Defence Forces. He said Gen Asim is Field Marshal, as I had already mentioned two days ago. He launched a scathing commentary targeting political rivals and the PTI.
The new CDF post, created by the 27th amendment following amendments to the Army Act, is set to replace the now-defunct Chairman of Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee. It was confirmed that Field Marshal Asim Munir would not only assume this new position but also have changes made to his tenure. However, as of November 29, Munir’s three-year tenure as Army Chief had formally ended, raising questions about the legal validity of his position.
Law Minister Azam Nazir Tarar attempted to calm nerves in the National Assembly, saying the notification will be issued. COAS remains in office. This is a government process. The Prime Minister was abroad, but once he returns, everything should be completed.
Yet, legal experts warn that without an official notification, the Army Chief’s tenure could technically be considered expired, even though a 2024 amendment increased service chiefs’ tenures to five years, potentially negating the need for a new notification.
COAS Asim Munir to lead as Pak Chief of Defence Forces for next 5 years
