Former President and Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) co-Chairman Asif Ali Zardari stated that former Army Chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa’s tenure included positive and negative events.
The PPP chairman termed the tenure of the former COAS ‘Bajwa Doctrine.’
In an interview with a private news channel, “Aaj News” with Asma Shirazi, the former president confirmed that former army head Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa never directly asked for an extension. He may have said it to the prime minister, but he never approached me.”
In a question regarding the appointment of the new Army Chief, Asif Ali Zardari stated that he was familiar with the newly appointed Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Asim Munir. “I advised Shehbaz Sharif to exercise his constitutional right. I informed him that we authorize him to exercise his constitutional authority.
In response to a question regarding the appointment of a new COAS, the former president stated that Gen. Asim Munir was on the top of the seniority list provided to the Prime Minister House. Therefore, as a result of his seniority, he got appointed.
However, the co-chairman of the PPP stated that he wished to lobby for General Aamer, who was sixth on the list and his military secretary but could not do so because the situation was not favorable.
Asif Ali Zardari praised the institutions’ resolve to remain apolitical and stated that the Pakistani military had advanced by remaining apolitical.
In response to the PTI’s demand for early elections, the former president ruled out the prospect, stating that it “would neither suit us nor the democracy of the country.” He termed the notion “immature” and stated, “I do not believe the establishment could force early elections.”
The co-chairman of the PPP stated that the coalition parties will run if the PTI was successful in dissolving the provincial assemblies.
In response to a query on motions of no confidence, Zardari stated that he had the support in Punjab to oust the PTI-led provincial government.
“We have seats in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa (KP) as well. But, unfortunately, some friends have strayed, and we must bring them back. So we will provide an alternative to resignation,” he continued.
Asif Ali Zardari, referring to Punjab Chief Minister (CM) Pervez Elahi, stated there was a divide between them. “I appointed Elahi as deputy prime minister and assigned them 17 portfolios,” This time, they opted out voluntarily. So now, we have more options than they have,” he remarked.
