Speculation has been circulating on social media suggesting that Pakistan’s army chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, might replace President Asif Ali Zardari. However, the Pakistani government strongly denied these rumors on Thursday, describing them as part of a “malicious campaign.” Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi stated that the government is fully aware of those behind this misinformation and emphasized that no discussions or plans exist regarding President Zardari’s resignation or any aspirations from the army chief to assume the presidency.
Naqvi further highlighted the strong and respectful relationship between President Zardari and the armed forces’ leadership, quoting the president as acknowledging knowledge about who is spreading these falsehoods and their motives. He underscored that Field Marshal Asim Munir remains focused solely on Pakistan’s strength and stability, dismissing the rumors as baseless and warning those involved that the government will take all necessary measures to safeguard the country’s interests.
Asim Munir was appointed army chief in 2022 with a three-year tenure, later extended to five years, and was promoted to the rank of field marshal in recognition of his role during recent hostilities with India—a rare honor in Pakistan’s history. Meanwhile, President Zardari, elected last year for a five-year term as part of a political arrangement supporting Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, continues to maintain good relations with the military establishment. His son, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, also holds the trust of powerful circles, demonstrated by his leading diplomatic efforts regarding the recent India-Pakistan conflict.
