Saturday, March 29, 2025
Asim Munir Appointed Pakistan’s First Chief of Defence Forces; Granted Lifetime Immunity and Uniform
Pakistan’s powerful Army Chief, Field Marshal Asim Munir, has now been officially appointed as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) — a newly created post aimed at enhancing coordination among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. This major development further strengthens Munir’s hold over Pakistan’s military and political structure.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s office confirmed that a summary recommending Munir’s appointment as CDF — while continuing as Chief of Army Staff (COAS) — was sent to President Asif Ali Zardari. The President approved the proposal, officially appointing Munir to the post for a five-year term.
Alongside this move, Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmad Babar has also been granted a two-year extension.
Munir’s prominence surged after India’s “Operation Sindoor” earlier this year. Munir led aggressive anti-India propaganda in Pakistan and was soon promoted to Field Marshal — a rank awarded only once before, to General Ayub Khan. Since then, Munir has been functioning as Pakistan’s most powerful figure, often described as the “undeclared ruler” of the country.
The newly created CDF position abolishes the earlier office of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee. The President’s swift approval also ended speculation that political hurdles could delay Munir’s elevation. His appointment had been pending since November 27.
Munir’s recent elevation to Field Marshal marked only the second such promotion in Pakistan’s history. The first was awarded to Ayub Khan after the 1965 India-Pakistan war — a conflict Pakistan ultimately lost but still celebrated internally.
Last month, Pakistan’s parliament passed a new law granting Asim Munir lifetime immunity, ensuring:
He will remain in uniform for life
He cannot be arrested under any circumstances
Opposition parties, especially Imran Khan’s PTI, have sharply criticized this “blanket protection,” calling it a severe blow to Pakistan’s democratic system.
Pakistan has spent nearly half of its history under direct military rule. The creation of the CDF position is seen as a major structural shift, giving Munir unprecedented authority over national defence, internal security, and strategic decision-making.
Asim Munir’s expanded role will shape Pakistan’s:
Defence policies
Regional military strategies
Domestic security landscape
In the coming months, the impact of his strengthened powers will become clearer. What is certain, however, is that Munir’s appointment as the first CDF marks the beginning of a new era in Pakistan’s political and military governance, with the army’s influence becoming even more deeply entrenched.
