PM Sharif returns as Field Marshal Asim Munir defence posting, KP rule top priority

WEB DESK: Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has departed from his residence in central London to return to Pakistan, concluding a brief visit to the United Kingdom. He had arrived in London on Thursday. During his stay, the Prime Minister attended seven medical appointments and held meetings with various delegations.

He departed for Pakistan from London’s Luton Airport today as his special aircraft took off at 10:30 a.m. local time. The PM was seen off by High Commissioner Dr Faisal, President of PML-N UK Ahsan Dar, and Khurram Butt. Staff from the High Commission were also present at the airport to bid him farewell.

Upon his return, official sources indicate that Prime Minister Sharif is expected to issue the formal notification for the probable appointment of Field Marshal Asim Munir as the Chief of Defence Forces. Additionally, he will need to address and make a crucial decision regarding the ongoing constitutional situation in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa related to the potential imposition of governor’s rule.

Chief of Defence Forces notification in limbo

Last week on Thursday midnight, Pakistan’s higher defence structure underwent a historic change at as the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) was formally abolished with the retirement of General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, following the passage of the 27th Constitutional Amendment.

Under the new structure, a single Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) will be created, who will also serve as the Chief of Army Staff (COAS), consolidating military authority. While the government has not yet officially notified the appointment, Field Marshal Asim Munir, the current COAS, is widely expected to be named to the new role for a five-year term.

Governor rule

In a separate development, KP Governor Faisal Karim Kundi stated that imposing governor’s rule remains a constitutional option if the provincial government fails to address governance and security challenges. He clarified it is a last resort, urging Chief Minister Sohail Afridi and his cabinet to improve administration and collaborate with federal authorities. Kundi praised KP police bravery but noted resource shortages, and welcomed the CM’s plan to attend the upcoming NFC meeting as a positive step for coordination. He emphasized that federal intervention can be avoided if the province demonstrates effective control over law and order.

PM’s Sharif return will mark the beginning of a period focused on significant defense and administrative matters.