Pakistan Army “apolitical” institute boost prestige: Gen Bajwa

General Qamar Javed Bajwa, the outgoing army chief, feels that the Army’s decision to become “apolitical” will contribute to its long-term prestige.

In an exclusive interview with the United Arab Emirates, Gulf News, Gen. Bajwa stated, “Due to the military’s historic role in the country’s politics, it garnered harsh condemnation from both the public and lawmakers. The Pakistan Army has always dominated national decision-making”.

The general maintained that the Army’s “role has been limited to its constitutionally prescribed mission solely by its decision to become ‘apolitical.'”

This move, despite being perceived unfavorably by a portion of society and eliciting personal criticism, will aid in reinvigorating and strengthening democratic culture and enhance state organs’ ability to execute and deliver effectively. Ultimately, this decision will assist boost the Army’s reputation,” he said.

Gen. Bajwa stated that throughout Pakistan’s history, the military had received unparalleled respect and trust from the Pakistani people.

“Public support for the Army’s positive and constructive role in Pakistan’s national security and development has never wavered. However, General Bajwa stated, “I feel that popular support and affinity for the armed services tend to fade when the military is seen to be involved in political activities. Consequently, I deemed it necessary to protect the Pakistan Army from the vagaries of Pakistani politics.”

Despite “some criticism and unfair vilification of the armed forces through mass media and skillfully designed false narratives,” the army commander pledged that the institution will stay loyal to its apolitical mission.

General Bajwa stated, “I am confident that this political isolation of the armed forces will benefit Pakistan in the long run by encouraging political stability and strengthening the army-to-people link.”

General Bajwa envisions an army that is unified, flexible, and adaptable.
Reflecting on his military career, Gen. Bajwa stated that it was a “deep honor to have served and led one of the world’s finest armed units during one of the most difficult periods in Pakistan’s history.”

General Bajwa stated, “We have devised plans to properly align ourselves with the requirements of future battlefields while maximizing our limited resources.”

The Army will become a “cohesive, flexible, adaptable, and contemporary force that can complement other aspects of national power by preserving a credible deterrent capability to assist establish a secure environment for national growth and socioeconomic wellbeing,” according to the army chief.

General Bajwa, current COAS, will transfer command of the Army to General Asim Munir on Tuesday (Tomorrow). General Asim Munir was appointed the new Chief of the Army Staff by the government last week.