Islamabad: Federal Minister for Railways Hanif Abbasi issued a series of striking political and military-related statements on Monday, asserting that Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces is Gen. Asim Munir and claiming Munir holds the rank of field marshal remarks he said he had “already revealed two days earlier.” The government has not issued any public notification confirming such an appointment.
Claims About Asim Munir’s Role
Abbasi told reporters that government could announce “whenever we want” and a notification might already been issued. He praised Munir, saying Pakistan received “unmatched honor” through the field marshal, and added that Munir had “kept within terretorial limits” while countering India’s aircraft, which he said “the world acknowledges.”
Criticism of PTI, Reflections on Political Conduct
Shifting to domestic politics, Abbasi likened Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s position to “a cat dreaming of meat,” asserting that while his party had “seen many hardships,” it had “never conspired against the country.”
He questioned who launched a long march when Munir was being considered for army chief, and said then-Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif faced threats but still appointed Munir. Abbasi also criticized PTI’s alleged efforts to block the transition.
Comments on Khawaja Asif, Party Dynamics
Abbasi said Defense Minister Khawaja Asif “should not comment on Gen. Bajwa” because he had “already taken advantage.” He argued that anyone who forgets their own gain “will say the same about the current regime.”
He added that he personally has “no communication” with Asif, noting that Shehbaz Sharif has “many other responsibilities” and would not intervene to reconcile them.
Praise for Nawaz Sharif and Ishaq Dar
Abbasi said he praises Nawaz Sharif and the “field marshal,” and would continue to do so. He described a “spiritual connection” with Finance Minister Ishaq Dar, whom he refers to as “Pir Sahib,” and maintained that Dar had “never asked” him to speak against Khawaja Asif.
Remarks on Fazlur Rehman and Internal Military Issues
Abbasi expressed respect for Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam–F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman but faulted him for making an “inappropriate remark” about Maryam Nawaz. “If he calls Maryam Nawaz his daughter, he should not speak like that,” Abbasi said.
He also commented on former intelligence chief Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed, alleging that Hameed believed “no one was watching” during his time in power. Abbasi claimed that recordings existed and that “everything was caught.” He added that when adversaries dream of dividing an institution, “and someone inside attempts the same, then they are eventually exposed.”
