Field Marshal Asim Munir Named Pakistan’s First Chief of Defence Forces

ISLAMABAD — Pakistan on Thursday appointed Field Marshal Asim Munir as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), a landmark move that reshapes the nation’s military command structure.
The appointment was confirmed after President Asif Ali Zardari approved a summary submitted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Under the new arrangement, Field Marshal Munir will concurrently serve as Chief of Army Staff (COAS), making him the first military leader to hold both positions.
The creation of the CDF role stems from the 27th Constitutional Amendment, which established the post to enhance coordination among Pakistan’s armed services. With parliamentary endorsement now in place, Field Marshal Munir has formally assumed the newly constituted office. His five‑year term begins immediately upon issuance of the official notification.
In a related decision, the government approved a two‑year extension for Air Chief Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, whose current tenure is set to conclude in March 2026. The extension ensures continuity in the leadership of the Pakistan Air Force.
The announcement brings an end to weeks of speculation surrounding the timing and implementation of the CDF appointment, which has been widely viewed as a significant restructuring of Pakistan’s defence hierarchy.
Rana Sanaullah, Adviser to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs, underscored the strategic importance of the new institution, describing it as a key component of the country’s evolving defence framework. He also rejected claims that former prime minister Nawaz Sharif attempted to delay the notification, calling such assertions unfounded.
Meanwhile, – Field Marshal Asim Munir has expressed confidence in the country’s direction, stating that Pakistan is witnessing clear signs of improvement and is now poised for a stronger and more promising future.
The remarks came during an informal conversation with journalists at Aiwan‑e‑Sadr, where the President of Kyrgyzstan, Sadyr Japarov, met with President Asif Ali Zardari. The brief interaction, though casual, carried significant weight given the current political and economic climate.
Responding to a question about the national situation, Field Marshal Asim Munir said, “Everything is fine, and everything is right before your eyes.”
He emphasized that the country is moving on a positive trajectory and added that Pakistan is now set to “take a higher flight,” indicating renewed confidence in national institutions and ongoing reforms.
According to officials, the meeting between the two presidents focused on strengthening bilateral cooperation, regional connectivity, trade, investment, and security collaboration. Diplomatic observers view the engagement as part of Pakistan’s broader efforts to enhance regional partnerships and economic ties. Field Marshal Asim Munir’s comments are being interpreted as a reassuring message aimed at boosting public confidence and signaling that the country is entering a phase of greater stability. His statement reflects optimism about Pakistan’s institutional performance and the collective efforts being made to steer the nation toward long‑term progress.