Terming speculation about the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) notification as unnecessary and irresponsible, Defence Minister Khawaja Mohammad Asif has said that the process has been initiated for issuing the notification for the newly created post.
“There is unnecessary and irresponsible speculation about CDF notification”, he stated in a post shared on micro-blogging platform X (former Twitter) on Sunday.
Khawaja Asif stated that there was no room for conjecturing, as the process has already been initiated, and as such, the notification would be issued in due course.
“Please be informed that the process has been initiated. PM is returning shortly. Notification will be issued in due course of time. No room for any conjecturing”, the post reads.
His remarks came after speculations over the delay in the issuance of the formal notification, following the restructuring of the military command system under new legislation.
Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir is expected to assume the unified role of CDF alongside his existing position as Chief of Army Staff (COAS).
Under the Pakistan Army (Amendment) Bill 2025, the COAS will simultaneously serve as the Chief of Defence Forces for a five-year term, with the tenure restarting from the date of notification. The legislation further states that all provisions of Article 243 applicable to a Field Marshal will also apply to a General elevated to the unified office.
The amendments also authorise the federal government-acting on the CDF’s recommendation, to empower the vice chief or deputy chief of army staff to exercise COAS powers through written orders.
The post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) has been replaced with a new office titled Commander, National Strategic Command. The commander may be appointed for a three-year term from among serving army generals on the advice of the COAS/CDF.
