Field Marshal or Fallout? Pakistan Faces Backlash for Promoting General Asim Munir After Operation Sindoor

Pakistan’s decision to elevate Army Chief General Asim Munir to Field Marshal, even after the setbacks suffered during India’s Operation Sindoor, has ignited widespread controversy.

Critics argue that instead of confronting military failures, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government has rewarded them, raising fears of a growing military stronghold over the civilian administration.

According to analysts, this move signals increased military entrenchment in the country’s political structure.

The promotion is viewed as a strategic maneuver to shield the military from accountability, especially in the wake of a high-profile military failure.

A Step Above the Constitution

Munir’s promotion places him beyond the reach of Pakistan’s judiciary and political system. In Pakistan, a Field Marshal is exempt from prosecution.

Only one other officer — Ayub Khan — held this title, having assumed it after a military coup in 1958.

Unlike Khan, Munir’s elevation came through formal government approval, with Prime Minister Sharif publicly announcing the move. This has sparked outrage among observers, who call it a “civilian-backed coup.”

Absolute Power and a Fifth Star

The Field Marshal rank is permanent and irreversible. Once granted, not even the Prime Minister can revoke it.

Unlike an Army Chief, who is technically removable, a Field Marshal is accountable to no one. Munir now wears a fifth star — the ultimate symbol of unchecked military authority in Pakistan.

Traditionally, the rank is awarded for outstanding wartime leadership. However, critics highlight the irony of Munir receiving this title after Pakistan’s military embarrassment during Operation Sindoor. Observers have labeled the move as a clear act of self-glorification.

Media Campaign Amid Military Humiliation

In the days following the conflict, the Pakistani military launched a coordinated media effort portraying Munir as the victor of Operation Sindoor.

These claims were dismissed by defense analysts as propaganda. Many believe that Munir orchestrated his own elevation, with Prime Minister Sharif merely endorsing it.

Retaining the Army Chief Role

Further raising eyebrows, Munir is not stepping down as Army Chief. Journalist Waqar Malik reported that Munir will continue to lead the military operationally while also holding the ceremonial rank of Field Marshal.

The government has already extended his tenure from three to five years, meaning Munir is likely to remain in power until 2027. His term was initially set to expire on November 29, 2025.

Political Fallout and Imran Khan’s Camp

The promotion has drawn sharp reactions from opposition leaders. Aleema Khan, sister of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, remarked, “Instead of making Asim Munir a Field Marshal, Shehbaz Sharif should have just declared him the Baadshah of Pakistan.”

The decision comes in the wake of a brief but intense four-day military exchange between India and Pakistan in early May, with both sides claiming victory before a ceasefire was brokered by US President Donald Trump on May 10.

Justifying the Promotion

Prime Minister Sharif’s office defended the decision, citing Munir’s “exemplary courage and determination” during the confrontation with India.

The government claimed Munir’s strategy helped safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty. The cabinet also approved a second extension for Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Ahmed Babar Sidhu.

State Minister Talal Chaudhry said the promotion was based on Munir’s leadership during simultaneous military challenges on Pakistan’s eastern and western fronts.

In his statement via the Inter-Services Public Relations, Munir dedicated the honour to Pakistan’s armed forces and citizens, calling it a collective achievement.

Field Marshal Rank: Rare and Symbolic

The rank of Field Marshal is seldom awarded. Pakistan has had 17 army chiefs since independence, and only Munir and Ayub Khan have held this title. The rank includes ceremonial privileges, such as a personal insignia and staff.

Inam ul Rahiem, a lawyer and ex-military officer, explained that the rank is held for life and symbolizes supreme military status.

India’s Field Marshals

India has also awarded this rank only twice — to General Sam Manekshaw in 1973 for leading the 1971 war, and to General K.M. Cariappa in 1986. Cariappa had earlier served in the British Indian Army and commanded Ayub Khan in Waziristan in 1945.

The Military’s Expanding Influence

Pakistan’s military has ruled directly for over three decades since independence and continues to influence major national decisions.

Although Munir’s predecessor General Qamar Javed Bajwa claimed the military had ended political interference, the PTI alleges that Munir led crackdowns on its members and rigged the 2024 elections. The government denies all allegations.

Economically, the military’s influence has expanded, especially through the Special Investment Facilitation Council (SIFC), co-chaired by Munir and Sharif.

While Pakistan’s economy has shown signs of recovery, including a drop in inflation and rising foreign reserves, critics argue the promotion reinforces military control.

A Sign of Political Survival?

Experts believe Sharif’s decision is rooted in self-preservation. Political analyst Cyril Almeida said Sharif’s approval was likely an attempt to stay in Munir’s good graces.

The legislation passed in 2024 allows for a second term as Army Chief, making an extension for Munir increasingly probable.

The promotion has prompted fears of deeper military entrenchment in civilian affairs. Security analyst Sahar Khan warned it could harm Pakistan’s democratic image. However, Minister Chaudhry dismissed the criticism, stating, “We fought a war, and we won it.”