Pakistan Faces Uncertainty Over Chief of Defence Forces; Experts Warn of Potential Instability

Pakistan is grappling with uncertainty over the appointment of its first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), a position created under a constitutional amendment. The deadline to appoint the country’s inaugural CDF has passed, yet no official notification has been issued. This delay has fueled political tension and created an unprecedented situation within the military hierarchy.

Current Army Chief Asim Munir’s position and future remain unclear amid this ambiguity, raising questions about command and control.

Expert Concern Over Rising Risks
Speaking to ANI, Tilak Devasher, former member of India’s National Security Advisory Board (NSAB), expressed serious concern over the situation. He warned that Munir, seeking to assert his authority, could potentially take actions that escalate tensions, particularly given his history of anti-India statements.

“Munir’s position is being questioned, but no one can challenge him effectively,” Devasher said. “Even the army itself is unsure if he is fully recognized as chief. If he decides to provoke an incident with India, the consequences could be severe.”

Civil-Military Imbalance
Devasher highlighted that the Pakistani civilian government’s weakness forced it to create the CDF post under military pressure. “If the government were stronger, it could have directly resisted appointing Munir as CDF. Instead, they are maneuvering behind the scenes,” he said.

Delay in Notification
The delay in issuing the CDF appointment is being viewed as a backdoor political tactic by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government. While the Prime Minister has remained silent, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently stated that the notification will be issued soon and the process has begun.

The CDF post, created under Pakistan’s 27th Constitutional Amendment, is intended to replace the role of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). The position’s tenure ended on November 27, 2025, coinciding with the conclusion of Munir’s term as Army Chief, and the notification was expected by November 29—yet the official announcement remains pending.