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Pakistan’s Civilian Leaders Reject Rumors of Army Chief’s Presidential Bid

Officials attribute the surge in rumors to misread routine meetings with Munir, noting that there is no plan for a constitutional amendment.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif (R) and President Asif Ali Zardari (C) jointly conferring the Baton of Field Marshal on Asim Munir during a ceremony at the country's President House.
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Overview

  • Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and Defence Minister Khawaja Asif denied any plan for President Zardari to step down or for Field Marshal Asim Munir to succeed him during their latest discussions.
  • Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said there is no consideration of a 27th constitutional amendment or a shift to a presidential form of government.
  • The government maintains that Munir’s meetings with civilian leaders are part of routine thrice-weekly security and policy briefings.
  • Officials emphasize that Munir, elevated to Field Marshal in May, has not expressed interest in political office and holds no desire to assume the presidency.
  • Government statements blame social media platforms for amplifying unverified reports and note this is the third wave of such rumors in July.