Ghulam Haider Shaikh
In Pakistan, military designations have always held a pivotal role in shaping national discourse and state affairs.
Among these titles, “Field Marshal” stands as a unique and rare distinction—exceptional in its nature and prestigious in its honor.
Globally recognized as the highest military rank, the title of Field Marshal holds both symbolic and operational value.
In a country like Pakistan, where the armed forces have consistently stood as a bulwark against internal and external threats, it is important to examine the constitutional, historical, and strategic implications of such an honor, especially in the context of the nation’s present defense challenges and evolving regional dynamics.
The Constitution of Pakistan (1973) clearly outlines the structure and command of the armed forces.
While ranks such as General, Lieutenant General, and Major General are well-established within the constitutional framework, the title “Field Marshal” is not explicitly mentioned.
However, this rank exists as a state tradition and a national honor that may be conferred by the government in recognition of extraordinary military service.
This precedence was set only once in Pakistan’s history, when General Muhammad Ayub Khan was awarded the title of Field Marshal for his distinguished services.
This distinction is not exclusive to Pakistan.
In the United Kingdom, the title was bestowed upon the Duke of Wellington after his victory against Napoleon, and later on Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery during World War II.
In Germany, generals like Erwin Rommel and Wilhelm Keitel were given this rank during World War II.
The Soviet Union conferred the title “Marshal of the Soviet Union” on Marshal Georgy Zhukov for capturing Berlin.
In India, this honor has been awarded to only two individuals—K.M. Cariappa in 1986 and Sam Manekshaw in 1973—both for their historic military leadership and contribution to national security.
In all these instances, the title was granted not just as a ceremonial honor but as a recognition of a lifetime of strategic vision and exceptional service.
In Pakistan, General Ayub Khan was promoted to Field Marshal in 1958 while serving as the Army Chief.
This decision was linked to his performance in the First Kashmir War (1947–48), his reforms in military structure, and the bolstering of Pakistan’s defense capabilities.
Although his subsequent political role remains subject to criticism, his military contributions—especially the modernization of the armed forces—form an indelible part of Pakistan’s defense history.
In the current era, when Pakistan faces multifaceted security challenges—ranging from cross-border infiltration, fifth-generation warfare, terrorism, and regional instability—the leadership of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir has emerged as both decisive and stabilizing.
Despite persistent ceasefire violations and hybrid warfare tactics from India, along with internal threats in Balochistan and Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, the Pakistan Army has responded with professionalism, restraint, and strategic depth under General Munir’s command.
Under his leadership, the country’s intelligence network has become more robust, and the operational readiness of the forces has significantly improved.
From revitalizing the National Action Plan to disrupting terrorist networks, and from strengthening border security to enhancing diplomatic defense narratives in global forums, General Asim Munir has proven his mettle.
His unique background in military intelligence (as former DG ISI and DG MI) coupled with a personality rooted in religious commitment—memorizing the Holy Qur’an—renders him not only a capable commander but also a man of character and vision.
Given these accomplishments, it would be both timely and justified for the state to consider honoring General Syed Asim Munir with the rank of Field Marshal.
Such recognition would not only celebrate individual achievement but would also symbolically affirm the Pakistan Army’s crucial role in safeguarding the nation’s territorial integrity and ideological foundations.
At a time when national unity and morale are of utmost importance, this gesture would serve as a powerful message of trust, continuity, and institutional respect.
Furthermore, awarding this rank would align with the global practice of honoring distinguished military leaders who have demonstrated exemplary service and strategic foresight.
It would reaffirm Pakistan’s commitment to valuing its military institutions and recognizing the sacrifices made by its soldiers and commanders, often in extreme and volatile conditions.
This step would also establish a legacy—a reminder for future generations that national service, commitment, and excellence are never forgotten.
Just as General Ayub Khan’s promotion became a chapter in Pakistan’s defense history, General Asim Munir’s elevation could mark the beginning of a new tradition: one where honors are bestowed not due to politics or privilege, but solely on merit and national service.
In conclusion, the title of Field Marshal should not be viewed merely as ceremonial, nor should it be seen through the lens of past political controversies.
Instead, it should be reclaimed as a national honor—one that reflects the nation’s gratitude to its defenders and sets a standard for future leaders.
At a time when Pakistan needs unity, institutional harmony, and national pride, bestowing this honor on a deserving military commander like General Asim Munir would send a clear message: that Pakistan honors its protectors, cherishes its peacekeepers, and respects the chain of sacrifice and leadership that ensures its sovereignty
