Field Marshal Asim Munir – A Lifelong Honour for a Stabilising Force in Pakistan

By Dr Ashraf Chohan
Chairman PMLN UK
Chief Editor Daily Rapid Lahore
International Political Analyst

Pakistan has taken a historic step by promoting General Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal for life, following a constitutional amendment that formally recognises his lifelong service to the nation. The title of Field Marshal is the highest and most distinguished honour within the armed forces — a five-star rank that symbolises not just command, but enduring national respect, strategic wisdom, and moral authority. It is a rare title reserved for military leaders whose role transcends the battlefield and becomes part of a nation’s permanent institutional legacy. Around the world, several celebrated commanders have been honoured with the lifelong rank of Field Marshal. In India, Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw was elevated to the title on 1 January 1973 in recognition of his leadership during the 1971 Indo-Pakistan War, and he remained Field Marshal for life. Likewise, Field Marshal Bernard Law Montgomery of the United Kingdom — one of the most iconic Allied generals of World War II — carried the title permanently after retirement. Field Marshal Erwin Rommel of Germany and Field Marshal Douglas Haig of Britain were also honoured in the same way, their ranks representing enduring symbols of honour and patriotic service. Seen in this international context, Pakistan’s decision to bestow the lifelong rank of Field Marshal upon General Asim Munir, through a parliamentary amendment, is neither unusual nor unprecedented. Rather, it reflects a globally recognised tradition of honouring exceptional military leadership that safeguards the state’s integrity, unity, and democratic order. Under General Asim Munir’s leadership, Pakistan has navigated through one of the most politically and strategically challenging phases in its recent history. Following the premature exit of Nawaz Sharif and the ousting of Imran Khan through a vote of no confidence — after which his party resigned from elected positions, throwing the political system into turmoil — General Munir played a critical stabilising role. He ensured continuity of democracy, strengthened state institutions, and preserved national cohesion when the country appeared deeply divided. His leadership was tested further during the recent India–Pakistan conflict, when India launched an unprecedented, one-sided attack on 19 locations across Pakistan. Under his command, the Pakistan Armed Forces responded swiftly, decisively, and proportionately, demonstrating strategic precision and national resolve. The effective military response led to an immediate ceasefire brokered by U.S. President Donald Trump, preventing regional escalation. This confrontation became a turning point in South Asia’s strategic equation, reshaping Middle Eastern alignments and coinciding with the gradual ceasefire in Gaza, as regional powers began redefining their defence doctrines. Equally noteworthy has been Field Marshal Munir’s collaboration with Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, which has created a rare and constructive synergy between the army and the elected civilian government. This understanding has brought stability, international respect, and policy coherence, enhancing Pakistan’s credibility both domestically and globally. For the first time in many years, Pakistan has witnessed a period of functional balance between civil authority and military responsibility — a partnership that has strengthened national governance and reassured global partners. While challenges remain — from terrorism and internal unrest to economic pressures, population growth, and educational needs — Pakistan today stands more stable and self-assured. The government’s focus on education reform, women’s empowerment, and youth engagement (with youth making up nearly 35% of the population) is key to sustainable progress. The elevation of Field Marshal Asim Munir thus represents far more than an individual honour. It symbolises the emergence of a hybrid national framework, where the army and democratic institutions work in tandem to defend, stabilise, and advance Pakistan’s interests. This understanding has already yielded results — and if sustained, it will continue to bear fruit for Pakistan in the years ahead, enabling the nation to face internal and external threats with unity, resilience, and renewed confidence