DG ISPR Denies Rumors of Army Chief Becoming President: Full Statement & Political Context

Introduction

Pakistan’s military spokesperson, Director General Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR) Lt. Gen. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has strongly denied rumors suggesting that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir is planning to assume the presidency. The clarification came during an interview with The Economist, where the DG ISPR dismissed the speculation as "nonsense" and "completely baseless".

This statement follows weeks of political speculation and social media rumors, which gained traction after the ruling coalition secured a two-thirds majority in parliament—a threshold required for constitutional amendments. The military and government have repeatedly warned against "fake news and digital terrorism" aimed at destabilizing Pakistan.

Key Points from DG ISPR’s Statement

1. Firm Rejection of Presidential Ambition Claims

• The DG ISPR categorically denied reports that Field Marshal Asim Munir seeks the presidency, calling them "false propaganda".

• He emphasized that the COAS remains fully focused on national security, with no political ambitions.

2. Government & Military United in Denial

• Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi previously dismissed the rumors, stating:

  "There has been no discussion about the president resigning or the COAS taking over. This is a malicious campaign by hostile elements.".

• Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif also clarified that President Asif Zardari, COAS Munir, and himself share a relationship based on mutual respect and national stability68.

3. Warning Against "Digital Terrorism"

• The DG ISPR accused "foreign agencies and anti-state elements" of spreading disinformation to sow discord between civilian and military leadership.

• The government has vowed to take legal action against those spreading false narratives.

4. Strong Message to India

During the same interview, the DG ISPR issued a stern warning to India amid rising tensions:

"If India attacks, this time we will start from the east—striking deep inside their territory. They must understand they can be hit anywhere.".

This comes after the May 2025 military standoff, where Pakistan downed six Indian jets (including three Rafales) during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos68.

Why Did the Rumors Surface?

1. Political Speculation: After the ruling coalition gained a two-thirds majority, theories emerged about possible constitutional changes.

2. Field Marshal Title: COAS Munir was conferred Pakistan’s highest military rank in May 2025, fueling conjecture about his influence.

3. Hybrid Governance Debate: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif recently termed Pakistan’s system a "practical necessity", sparking discussions on civil-military dynamics.

Conclusion: No Truth to the Claims

The military, government, and presidency have all rejected the rumors, reaffirming that:
✔ No leadership change is planned
✔ COAS Munir remains committed to defense, not politics
✔ Stability is the top priority

The DG ISPR’s statement aims to quell misinformation and reinforce institutional harmony. However, the episode highlights ongoing challenges from disinformation campaigns in Pakistan’s political landscape.

For further updates, follow credible news sources like Dawn, The News, and ARY News.