Risalpur: Army Chief General Syed Asim Munir said that those who flout clear restrictions imposed on freedom of expression in Constitution cannot point fingers at others.

Addressing passing-out parade of Pakistan Air Force cadets at Asghar Khan Academy in Risalpur as chief guest General Munir said Article 19 of Constitution clearly defined limits of freedom of speech and expression of opinion.

He emphasised pivotal role cadets played in safeguarding nation’s skies and upholding regional unity. Addressing cadets directly, Army reiterated their significance as centre of hope and guardians of skies, highlighting virtues of character, courage and competence that they are expected to embody throughout their military careers.

“You are center of our hopes, guardian of skies and guarantor of regional unity,” he said, adding, “Your conduct will be extraordinary not only for your personal ethics, but also for respected institution.”

He told cadets they must never hesitate to render sacrifices for defence, honour and dignity of motherland.

Military leadership expects you to always uphold eternal tradition of our nation’s best spirit and the institution’s professionalism and bravery.”

COAS underscored constitutional boundaries of freedom of speech and expression, cautioning against flouting these restrictions while expecting adherence to constitutional principles from all quarters.“We are well aware of our constitutional limits and expect others to also prioritise compliance with Constitution,” he stressed.

He touched upon implications of arms race in region that he said was likely to upset balance of power, adding that advanced technologies, including artificial intelligence, robotics and quantum computing, were altering use of air power as well as expanding its scope.

“Without strong air force, country is at mercy of aggressors,” he stressed, adding that Pakistan Air Force had always lived up to expectations of nation.  Reflecting on valour and professionalism demonstrated by Pakistan Air Force, General Munir commended their unwavering commitment to duty, citing notable examples such as their courageous actions during February 2019 conflict.

Additionally, he condemned indiscriminate violence witnessed in conflicts such as Gaza war and reiterated Pakistan’s unwavering support for oppressed, particularly in Kashmir. He said Gaza was an example of suffering that war can bring, adding that indiscriminate killing of elderly, women and children in Gaza was proof that violence was increasing in world.

“Always remember that truth is power and falsehood can never be powerful,” Army Chief remarked.

Drawing inspiration from national heroes such as Rashid Minhas, Sarfaraz Rafiqi, and MM Alam, General Munir urged graduating cadets to remain steadfast in their commitment to nation and uphold dignity of Pakistan. He emphasised importance of remaining loyal to state and urged cadets to emulate exemplary service and sacrifice of those who came before them.

Published in The Daily National Courier, May, 03 2024

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