The Pakistan Army has dismissed as “baseless” the rumours suggesting that Army Chief General Asim Munir intends to become the next President of the country.
The clarification came in response to a surge of speculation and misinformation circulating on social media in recent weeks, claiming that Munir was eyeing President Asif Ali Zardari’s position.
In an interview with The Economist, Army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry stated unequivocally that the army chief has no interest in assuming the presidency and that no such plan is under consideration. The state-run PTV shared his remarks on social media on Wednesday.
“Speculation about Field Marshal Asim Munir becoming Pakistan’s president is entirely unfounded,” Chaudhry said.
Earlier, on July 10, Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also rejected the rumours surrounding a potential ouster of President Zardari, calling it a “malicious campaign.” He emphasised that Zardari maintains a strong and respectful relationship with the military leadership and asserted that Munir’s sole focus is on ensuring Pakistan’s strength and stability. (Agencies)
