ISLAMABAD: A recent meeting between Pakistan’s top civilian and military leaders has reignited speculation about a potential shift in the country’s political setup, including rumours that Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir could become the next president.
This marks the third time in July that such speculation has surfaced. Last week, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif dismissed claims that President Asif Ali Zardari might be forced to resign to pave the way for Munir. The latest rumours followed Munir’s visit to the PM House on Tuesday, shortly before Sharif met Zardari at the President’s House, The Express Tribune reported.
The speculation, mostly driven by social media, also hints at a possible move from a parliamentary to a presidential system, allegedly via a proposed 27th constitutional amendment. However, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif called the rumours “baseless,” although he confirmed the matter was discussed during Sharif’s meeting with Zardari.
“The president was fully aware of the issue and expressed complete confidence in the government,” Asif told The Express Tribune, dismissing the developments as “kite flying.” He said the prime minister and army chief meet regularly—about three times a week—to discuss national matters and that the latest meeting was routine.
“The army chief has no interest in politics,” he added. “He already holds the highest office in the military and commands immense respect, especially following Pakistan’s recent tensions with India. He doesn’t need anything else.”
Sharif had earlier rejected the rumours in a July 11 interview with The News, stating: “Field Marshal Asim Munir has never expressed any desire to become the president, nor is there any such plan.”
Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi also condemned the “malicious campaign” targeting Zardari, Sharif and Munir, adding, “We know who is behind it.”
Asif further dismissed any talk of a rift between the ruling Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) and the Pakistan People’s Party (PPP), saying both parties remain united despite recent tensions over reserved seats following a Supreme Court verdict.
“We are not just partners in power, but beyond,” he said.
Responding to questions about the 27th constitutional amendment, Asif said there is currently no discussion about any constitutional changes. “No legislative agenda was discussed in Tuesday’s meeting,” he clarified.
According to a statement from the President’s Press Wing, Sharif met Zardari at Aiwan-e-Sadr along with ministers Khawaja Asif, Ahsan Iqbal, Azam Nazeer Tarar, Mohsin Naqvi, and PM’s Adviser Rana Sanaullah. The meeting focused on the country’s political, economic, and security situation.
The statement added that the two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to working together for national development, stability, and prosperity.
