The Pakistan Army has firmly rejected rumours that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir is planning to replace President Asif Ali Zardari, labeling the speculation as “completely baseless.” The statement, issued via state-run PTV, follows weeks of social media chatter and disinformation campaigns alleging Munir’s presidential ambitions, fueled by his high-profile role and recent promotion to Field Marshal, a rare five-star rank previously held only by Gen Ayub Khan.

In an interview with The Economist, army spokesperson Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry clarified, “Field Marshal Munir has never shown interest in ascending to the presidency. No such proposal is under consideration.” He condemned the rumours as “irresponsible and purely fictional,” warning that dragging the military into political speculation is dangerous. Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, on July 10, also dismissed similar claims as a “malicious campaign,” affirming Zardari’s strong ties with the military and Munir’s focus on Pakistan’s stability.

Munir, appointed COAS in November 2022 after a turbulent tenure as ISI chief, has consolidated significant influence, notably during the 2024 elections and the India-Pakistan tensions following the Pahalgam attack. His extended tenure until 2027 and elevation to Field Marshal in May 2025 sparked coup rumours, which analysts attribute to opposition narratives from Imran Khan’s PTI. The army’s swift rebuttal aims to quell unrest amid ongoing economic and security challenges.

Also Read: Pakistan-China Alliance: A Steadfast Bond Amid Global Shifts

Also Read: Dharmasthala's Mystery: SIT Probes New Site in Mass Burial Case