Islamabad: Defence Minister Khawaja Asif said that “Formalities” of appointing a new Army Chief will “likely take a day”. Speaking informally with journalists outside Prime Minister Office he hinted that new Army Chief may be appointed before PM Shehbaz embarks on a trip to Turkiye on November 25.

Speaking to media, Asif said today, “Legal process on summary is underway.” Brushing off journalist’s question about government’s stance on following seniority principle, Khwaja Asif said “I don’t know about that, but names should be finalised by tomorrow and allies and Cabinet members will also be taken into confidence.” “Be it President or prime minister, decisions should be made according to Constitution and in national interest,” he added while responding to another press representative.

Asif also said he did not “want to speculate” but remained hopeful that “uncertainty that has gripped country for past few months will definitely end once appointment matter settles before PM leaves”.

“Process has its own sanctity,” he said as he regretted that issue had been made “into a big deal” due to “our politics and media” among other factors.

Published in The Daily National Courier, November, 24 2022

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