LAHORE: General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS), visited the Lahore Garrison today. During his visit, the COAS paid his respects at the Martyrs’ Monument by laying a floral wreath and offering a solemn tribute to those who have sacrificed their lives for the nation.
Following the tribute, General Munir was briefed in detail on the operational readiness of the formation. He addressed the officers and soldiers at the Corps Headquarters, praising their dedication to the nation and their professional conduct. He highlighted the challenges posed by inimical forces and their abettors, who have engaged in digital terrorism to sow discord between the Armed Forces and the people of Pakistan through misinformation, fake news, and propaganda.
General Munir emphasised that such divisive efforts would be thwarted with the unwavering support of the Pakistani people. He reaffirmed the commitment of every soldier and officer in the Pakistan Army to place their duties and responsibilities above all else, continuing to make substantial daily sacrifices.
The COAS also remarked on the events of May 9th, describing them as a black day in the history of Pakistan. He criticized the actions of indoctrinated and misled individuals who attacked state symbols and national unity, desecrating monuments dedicated to martyrs. These actions, he noted, provided enemies of the state with opportunities to ridicule Pakistan internationally.
General Munir deplored the ongoing attempts by the same instigators to manipulate the narrative and falsely implicate the state in these disgraceful acts. He stressed that there could be no leniency or negotiation with those responsible for orchestrating this dark chapter in the nation’s history. The Supreme Court of Pakistan has given some misled participants the benefit of the doubt, but the leaders who masquerade as victims will be held accountable for their role in orchestrating violence and sabotage.
In his address, COAS reassured the officers and soldiers that the dignity of the martyrs, their families, and the integrity of the institution would be fiercely protected. He assured that the planners, abettors, facilitators, and perpetrators of the May 9th events would face justice as per the laws of Pakistan. He warned that the patience of the Armed Forces should not be mistaken for weakness and that their restraint in responding to provocations has limits.
Later, General Munir inaugurated the Jinnah Library at the Lahore Garrison, stating that the Armed Forces have rebuilt the memory of the nation’s founder, Quaid-e-Azam Muhammad Ali Jinnah, by establishing this public library on the remnants of destruction caused by destructive elements.
Upon arrival, COAS was received by the Commander of the Lahore Corps, marking the beginning of a significant day of remembrance and resolve.
