Asim Munir Takes Charge as Pakistan’s Most Powerful Man, Makes Big Declaration as CDF — Sends Signals to India and the Taliban

In a dramatic political and military development, Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari has issued the official notification appointing Army Chief General Asim Munir as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). With this elevation, Munir now becomes the supreme commander of all three services—Army, Air Force, and Navy—marking the most significant consolidation of military power in Pakistan’s history.

Munir’s First Message: ‘Pakistan is Rising Again’

Soon after the notification was signed at the Presidential Palace, General Munir addressed journalists informally, saying:
“Everything is fine. You can see it yourself. Things are improving, and Pakistan is now heading towards new heights.”

The government claimed that Munir was chosen based on the Army’s “exceptional performance against India.” Analysts, however, argue that Munir secured this position through political bargaining with the Sharif brothers and exerting intense pressure on civilian leaders.

Why the Appointment Matters: Tensions with India & Taliban

Experts caution that Munir’s rise will have direct implications for India and the Taliban:

• Pakistan suffered heavy losses in Operation Sindoor, raising questions about the military’s preparedness.
• The Tehreek-e-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) and Baloch rebels have been inflicting significant casualties on Pakistani forces.
• Recently, the Taliban army killed dozens of Pakistani soldiers in retaliatory attacks.
• Massive unemployment and growing unrest, especially from supporters of Imran Khan, have shaken Munir’s authority.

As CDF, Munir is expected to project strength by escalating pressure on India and the Afghan Taliban to reinforce his image as a “victorious” leader.

The Behind-the-Scenes Bargaining

According to reports, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif sent Munir’s appointment summary to President Zardari only after Nawaz Sharif gave his approval. Zardari then signed it late at night.

Key developments include:

• Munir receives a 5-year term as CDF.
• Air Chief Zaheer Ahmad Babar Sidhu’s tenure has been extended by two years.
• Government adviser Rana Sanaullah said that creating the CDF role required changes to national security laws.

While officials deny any rift between the military and Sharif government, analysts insist that intense negotiations were underway:

• Nawaz Sharif reportedly wants to return as PM.
• He also demanded that one of his loyal officers be appointed Deputy CDF under Munir.
• The notification was issued only after both sides reached a deal.

A Leader with a Hardline Ideology

General Asim Munir is known for his jihadi-minded, hardline worldview, raising concerns about stability in the region.

Intelligence experts warn:

• Kashmir may see renewed turbulence.
• India must stay vigilant in the coming months.
• Munir’s connections with former U.S. President Donald Trump could shape future geopolitical equations.