Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Major General Babar Iftikhar, while addressing a press conference on Thursday said that Pakistan Army has nothing to do with politics and will remain apolitical in the future as well.
He said that Pakistan’s survival depends solely on democracy and since the army has nothing to do with politics, no marshal law will be imposed in the future as well.
While replying to a question, Gen Iftikhar said that the word neutral doesn’t properly describe the army’s stance.
“[The word] apolitical is better. In our constitutional and legal setup, no kind of political affiliation or interference should exist.” He said.
COAS not seeking extension
While pointing out the rumors related to Army Chief’s extension, Gen Iftikhar said, “Let me put this to rest. COAS is neither seeking an extension nor will he accept it. He will be retiring on time on November 22.”
“This is character assassination without evidence,” he added.
NO ‘conspiracy’ word included in NSC statement
DG ISPR, while referring to the National Security Committee (NSC) meeting last month, clarified that the word “conspiracy” was not used in the statement issued after the meeting.
He refused to discuss what was discussed in the meeting but noted that the word “conspiracy” was not used.
“Whatever the meeting concluded is present in the statement.” He said.
Malicious campaign against institutions
Gen Iftikhar also remarked on the ongoing propaganda being run against the security forces saying the concerned departments of the government were taking action against it and continued that they have also discovered foreign linkages during the investigation of the malicious campaign
“We have collected data around the malicious campaign against institutions. The campaigns started locally and have expanded globally. We will share our analysis in the coming days.”
He also urged the people to avoid sharing such reports without confirming them.