Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir on Wednesday reassured the Army’s ranks and files that all those responsible for “bringing shame to the nation” on Black Day of 9th May would certainly be brought to Justice.
During his visit to Sialkot Garrison, the COAS said recently planned and orchestrated tragic incidents of May 9 would never be allowed again at any cost.
“No one will be allowed to disrespect our shuhada and their monuments. They are a source of inspiration and pride for the rank and file of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies, Government officials and the people of Pakistan,” he remarked.
Upon arrival, the COAS laid floral wreath at Martyrs’ Monument and paid rich tribute to the Shuhada who sacrificed their lives for the pride, honor and dignity of the nation, said a press release of the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).
“The martyrs have been promised the highest abode in the life hereafter and shall continue to maintain the highest levels of respect amongst the people of Pakistan,” he said, adding yhe State of Pakistan and Armed Forces would always maintain all Shuhada and their families in very high esteem and continue to honor them and their supreme sacrifices with utmost respect and dignity.
The Army Chief appreciated under command formations for their hard work, devotion, high morale and professionalism.
During his interaction with officers and troops, COAS stressed upon maintaining focus on Army’s professionalism and preparedness to deal with complex internal and external security challenges including propaganda warfare.
Earlier on arrival, COAS was received by Commander Gujranwala Corps.
On May 9, PTI Chairman Imran Khan was arrested by the National Accountability Bureau with the assistance of paramilitary Rangers at the Islamabad High Court in connection with the Al Qadir Trust case. The arrest sparked countrywide protests, which led to incidents of vandalism and violence.
In response to these events, the military and government issued several condemnations. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) statement is the most recent among these statements. The military issued three statements related to the May 9 events. The first statement called the day a “dark chapter” in the country’s history. The second statement, issued last week, stated that the army would not tolerate any further attempt to violate the sanctity and security of its installations or engage in vandalism. The statement also pledged to bring to justice all those responsible for planning, abetting, instigating, and executing the vandalism.
In a more stringent step, the top military leaders vowed on Monday to bring the arsonists who attacked civil and military installations to justice through trial under relevant laws, including the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secrets Act. The decision was taken at a special Corps Commanders Conference, which condemned the politically motivated and instigated incidents against military installations and public/private properties.
Recently, the National Security Committee, which is the highest forum for coordination on security issues, was convened under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The committee reaffirmed its commitment to try those involved in the May 9 violence under army laws.
