Islamabad — Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir has firmly rejected widespread speculation regarding possible changes in the country’s top leadership, emphasizing that no such developments are taking place and asserting his role solely as “protector of the country.” The statement was made during his first on-record media interaction, an extensive two-hour interview with senior journalist Suhail Warraich in Brussels, following COAS’ high-profile visit to the United States.
“Rumors of change are false. Those spreading them oppose govt & state. God made me guardian of this nation, I want no other office.”
– Field Marshal Asim Munir 🇵🇰 pic.twitter.com/PBBd6f3EYR
— Mansoor Ahmed Qureshi (@MansurQr) August 16, 2025
Addressing the rumors head-on, Field Marshal Asim Munir stated that reports suggesting a reshuffle in the presidency or premiership were “completely false” and “fabricated by certain elements intent on spreading instability.” He categorically denied any involvement of state institutions—civil or military—in fueling the narrative, instead attributing the disinformation to groups seeking to exploit uncertainty for political gain.
Reiterating his personal stance, Field Marshal Asim Munir told the Brussels gathering: “God has made me protector of the country. I do not desire any position other than that.” His declaration comes at a time when political speculation has intensified in Islamabad, reflecting heightened sensitivity over civil-military relations.
The COAS used the occasion to commend the Prime Minister, federal cabinet, and broader government leadership, praising their resilience during Pakistan’s recent confrontation with India in May. He credited their “determination and courage” as instrumental in navigating the crisis, further highlighting the importance of civilian-military coordination in safeguarding the nation’s interests.
When questioned on the prospects of political reconciliation, Field Marshal Asim Munir hinted that progress could only be achieved through a genuine act of apology. Observers interpreted this as an implicit reference to the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and its jailed leadership, who remain accused of inciting the violent May 9 riots. However, Munir refrained from naming individuals directly, maintaining a cautious but firm stance on accountability.
On the international front, the army chief articulated a clear foreign policy vision: “We will not sacrifice one friend for the other.” The remark underscored Pakistan’s strategic balancing act between long-standing partnerships with the United States and its deepening ties with China. Field Marshal Asim Munir stressed that Pakistan would pursue an independent path, safeguarding its national interests with out aligning disproportionately with either global power bloc.
In a striking diplomatic note, Field Marshal Asim Munir also applauded U.S. President Donald Trump’s peace initiatives, revealing that Pakistan spearheaded efforts to nominate Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, with several other countries subsequently supporting the move. The endorsement signals Islamabad’s readiness to support global peacebuilding initiatives, even amid complex geopolitical rivalries.
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