The Director General of Inter-Services Public Relations (DG ISPR), Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry, has firmly denied media reports suggesting that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir made any comments regarding Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) during his recent visit to Brussels. Chaudhry emphasized that the army chief did not give any interview nor make any statements on political matters, refuting claims about political reconciliation or apologies.
On Thursday, Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry addressed the media to clarify the misinformation surrounding COAS Asim Munir’s remarks in Brussels. The DG ISPR categorically stated that the army chief made no comments about PTI, nor did he discuss any “apology,” directly contradicting recent media reports. Chaudhry emphasized that COAS Munir did not grant any interviews and underscored that such reports were unfounded.
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This clarification comes after reports emerged last week claiming that the army chief had suggested political reconciliation in Pakistan could only happen through genuine apologies from all parties involved. Lt Gen Chaudhry reiterated the military’s stance on the May 9 riots, which were sparked by the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. The riots led to the destruction of military and state installations by mobs, with Chaudhry asserting that those responsible, along with their planners and facilitators, must face legal consequences.
The DG ISPR reminded that the May 9 issue was not solely a military matter but a national one, stressing the importance of holding individuals accountable for illegal acts under the law.
Addressing broader issues of governance, Lt Gen Chaudhry reflected on Pakistan’s historical and ideological significance in the region, noting that the country faces frequent external challenges due to its strategic importance. He praised the response of Pakistan’s military, especially during recent conflicts with India, where the Pakistani Army successfully thwarted enemy attempts to undermine its position. “When Pakistan and the Pakistani Army gave a strong response, India failed in all its plans,” Chaudhry said, emphasizing that Pakistan had successfully fought on multiple fronts.
On terrorism, Lt Gen Chaudhry advocated for the full implementation of the National Action Plan (NAP), particularly focusing on the importance of all 14 points of the plan to address governance gaps. He highlighted the sacrifices made by the army, police, and law enforcement agencies, noting that they are “filling the governance gaps with their blood” daily.
Regarding the expulsion of illegal Afghan nationals, the military spokesperson warned that political and criminal elements in Pakistan could complicate the situation. He stressed the need to address the issue of illegal immigrants involved in criminal activities while acknowledging potential political challenges ahead.
