The Pakistan People’s Party has launched a campaign seeking an extension in service for Army Chief Gen. Raheel Sharif.
The Pakistan People’s Party has launched a campaign seeking an extension in service for Army Chief Gen. Raheel Sharif.
On Wednesday, the PPP submitted a resolution in the Punjab Assembly seeking extension in service of Gen. Sharif.
PPP co-chairman Asif Ali Zardari surprised everyone on Tuesday night as he supported continuity of the military leadership and termed Army Chief Raheel Sharif’s decision to retire on due date as “premature.” This was a departure from his earlier stance, when last month Mr Zardari had hailed the Army Chief’s decision not to take an extension as “admirable.”
In his previous statement, Mr Zardari had said: “It is good that the rumours the Army Chief was seeking an extension have been set aside and a categorical statement made that Gen. Raheel Sharif would not seek an extension in service.” In January, director-general of ISPR Lt General Asim Salim Bajwa quoted Gen. Sharif as saying he did not believe in an extension and would retire on the due date.
In his latest statement, Mr Zardari said the decision by the Army Chief not to take an extension was premature as a continuity in leadership and Army’s resolute struggle guaranteed protection and security.
“As the country is going through a sensitive phase, PPP considers Gen. Sharif’s decision premature,” the former President said. “The decision can transform people’s hopes into disappointment, while it may also give a negative perception,” he added.
Mr Zardari said it was not wise to search for military’s role in political affairs, accountability and other matters. “We should never give the impression that the nation does not acknowledge the sacrifices of its brave officers and soldiers,” he said.
The PPP leader said, “The sacrifices of the armed forces helped improve law and order situation in the country. The country achieved significant success in the war against terrorism.”
Mr Zardari hoped that under “the fearless and thoughtful leadership” of Gen. Sharif, the country’s struggle to root out terrorism will soon reach a logical end. “However, continuity of military leadership is utmost necessary in order to rid country of terrorism menace,” he said.
