ISLAMABAD, May 20 (Reuters) – Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, is set to be promoted to the prestigious rank of Field Marshal, according to a statement released by the Prime Minister’s Office on Tuesday. This marks the first time in nearly six decades that a Pakistani general has been elevated to this five-star ceremonial rank.
The promotion, sanctioned by the cabinet under Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, follows what is described as Pakistan’s most intense military confrontation with India in almost 30 years. Sharif’s office stated the promotion was made “in recognition of General Munir’s strategic brilliance and courageous leadership that safeguarded national security and led to a decisive victory over the enemy.”
A senior security official clarified that the title of Field Marshal is symbolic, signifying exceptional military leadership and wartime performance. Despite the promotion, Munir will continue to serve as the Army Chief.
The last Pakistani to hold the title of Field Marshal was former military ruler General Ayub Khan in 1965.
Additionally, the cabinet approved an extension of service for Pakistan Air Force Chief, Air Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, though the duration of the extension remains undisclosed. It is also unclear whether the Field Marshal promotion will impact Munir’s retirement timeline.
General Munir assumed command as Army Chief in November 2022. In November 2023, a parliamentary amendment extended his tenure to five years, deviating from the standard three-year term.
In a statement released by the military’s media wing (ISPR), Munir remarked, “This is not a personal achievement, but an honour for the Armed Forces of Pakistan and the entire nation.”
