Pakistan has marked a major shift in its military structure by appointing Field Marshal Asim Munir as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). The federal government issued the notification after President Asif Ali Zardari approved the appointment based on a summary submitted by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. Moreover, the new role will be held alongside his existing position as Chief of Army Staff.
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The Ministry of Defence confirmed the historic appointment shortly after receiving presidential approval under Article 243 of the Constitution and Clause 8A of the Army Act. Additionally, the notification states that Field Marshal Munir will begin his five-year tenure immediately. This simultaneous holding of both offices marks a significant consolidation within Pakistan’s defence leadership.
Furthermore, the creation of the Chief of Defence Forces position follows the 27th Constitutional Amendment, which aimed to strengthen coordination among the armed forces. With parliamentary approval already in place, Field Marshal Munir has officially assumed responsibilities under this newly established framework. Officials believe the development will enhance strategic decision-making and improve institutional harmony within the defence sector.
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In a related move, the government has granted a two-year extension to Air Chief Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu, whose current tenure ends in March 2026. This decision ensures continuity in the Pakistan Air Force’s leadership during a period of major structural changes. Moreover, the extension aligns with broader efforts to stabilize senior command roles across the military.
Meanwhile, political leaders emphasized the importance of the new defence structure. Adviser to the Prime Minister Rana Sanaullah stated that the CDF position represents a crucial addition to Pakistan’s security framework. He also dismissed recent speculation by clarifying that no political leader attempted to block the notification, ensuring the process remained transparent and uninterrupted.