Field Marshal Asim Munir Takes Charge as Pakistan’s First Chief of Defence Forces
In a major restructuring of Pakistan’s military hierarchy, President Asif Ali Zardari has officially sanctioned the appointment of Syed Asim Munir as the country’s inaugural Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). This historic decision ensures that Munir will lead the armed forces for a fixed five-year tenure.
The announcement was confirmed via the President of Pakistan’s official social media channels, stating that the recommendation put forth by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif had been accepted. Under this new directive, Field Marshal Munir will concurrently hold the positions of Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) and CDF.
A Historic Appointment
The establishment of the Chief of Defence Forces role is a recent development in Islamabad, following the passage of the 27th Amendment to the Constitution last month. The amendment was designed to centralize military command and streamline decision-making.
By assuming this role, Asim Munir has etched his name in history. Earlier this year, he was elevated to the rank of Field Marshal, becoming only the second officer in Pakistan's existence to hold this prestigious title. The only other military leader to hold this rank was General Ayub Khan, who commanded the army during the 1965 conflict with India.
Extensions and Strategic Moves
Alongside Munir’s elevation, the government also focused on continuity within the Air Force. President Zardari approved a two-year service extension for Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu. This extension is scheduled to begin on March 19, 2026. The President conveyed his best wishes to both commanders as they take on their expanded responsibilities.
Speculation and Delays
The path to this announcement was not entirely smooth. Leading up to the official notification, political circles were rife with speculation regarding Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s stance. The notification was originally expected on November 29, coinciding with the end of Munir’s initial three-year term as Army Chief.
The delay drew sharp criticism and analysis from regional experts. Tilak Devasher, a former member of India’s National Security Advisory Board, spoke to news agencies regarding the situation. He suggested that Prime Minister Sharif’s recent travels to Bahrain and London were calculated moves to distance himself from the immediate signing of the notification.
Devasher pointed out that the delay created a precarious "constitutional gap." For a brief period, questions arose regarding the chain of command, particularly concerning the Nuclear Command Authority, which falls under the purview of the new strategic structure. However, with the President’s final approval, the leadership void has been filled, and Munir is now set to steer Pakistan's military strategy for the next half-decade.
