Asim Munir Becomes Pakistan’s Most Powerful General Ever; Appointed First CDF, Beyond Shehbaz Sharif’s Control

Pakistan has taken a dramatic turn in its civil–military power structure with the appointment of Field Marshal Asim Munir as the country’s first-ever Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). President Asif Ali Zardari issued the official notification late on Thursday, confirming Munir’s elevation for a five-year term, marking a historic consolidation of military authority in Pakistan.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, after weeks of high-level political bargaining and behind-the-scenes negotiations, finally approved Munir’s name—a decision that, analysts say, underscores the military’s overwhelming influence over Pakistan’s political leadership.

Dual Power: Army Chief + CDF

According to the presidential notification, Munir will retain his current position as Chief of Army Staff even after assuming the newly created CDF role.
This means two of Pakistan’s most powerful military offices now rest in the hands of a single man, effectively making Field Marshal Asim Munir the most dominant military figure in Pakistan’s recent history.

President Zardari’s office stated that the prime minister’s summary recommending Munir’s joint appointment as COAS and CDF has been approved without modification.

Sharif–Munir Tussle Delayed the Appointment

A CNN-News18 report citing government sources revealed that the delay in Munir’s coronation was rooted in a tense power struggle between the Sharif family and Pakistan’s top general.

According to the report:

• The Sharifs wanted guarantees of future military support.
• The appointment appeared to be less of an institutional decision and more a political transaction.
• Sources hinted that Munir’s five-year term in both positions could be linked to ensuring Nawaz Sharif’s return as prime minister in the coming years.

Unprecedented Concentration of Military Power

By holding both the CDF and COAS positions, Munir now wields unmatched authority in a country where the military already dominates national policy.
Critics argue that this unprecedented concentration of command represents a dangerous centralization of power, undermining democratic accountability.

While the Shehbaz Sharif government has attempted to frame the development as an “institutional reform,” most analysts interpret it as a politically motivated arrangement that further strengthens Pakistan’s powerful military establishment.

Field Marshal Status Places Munir Above Civilian Leadership

An extraordinary provision has also been invoked to elevate Munir to the rank of Field Marshal, a position that grants him lifetime immunity from any investigation or prosecution.
This virtually places him above the prime minister, giving him unparalleled authority.

With dual command and legal immunity, Munir’s appointment does more than reshape Pakistan’s military structure—it signals the start of an era in which the country’s future may be determined by one man in uniform.