President Zardari’s Role Secure, COAS Never Contested: PM Statement

ISLAMABAD (RNN TV) — Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif has firmly rejected circulating rumours that President Asif Ali Zardari may be asked to resign or that Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Asim Munir harbours any intention of assuming the presidency.

Calling the reports “nothing but speculation,” the prime minister assured there is no truth to the claims being spread by certain segments of the media. Speaking to The News on Friday, he stated unequivocally, “Field Marshal Asim Munir has never expressed any desire to become president, nor is there any such plan under consideration.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz further highlighted the strength of the working relationship between the country’s top leadership. “President Zardari, Field Marshal Asim Munir, and I enjoy mutual respect and are united in our commitment to Pakistan’s progress and prosperity,” he said.

The clarification follows a similar statement from Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi, who denounced what he described as a “malicious campaign” targeting the president, prime minister, and army chief. Sharing his remarks on X (formerly Twitter), Naqvi said, “We are fully aware of those behind this narrative. There has never been any discussion, nor does any such idea exist, regarding the president stepping down or the COAS seeking the presidency.”

Naqvi went further to suggest the involvement of hostile foreign forces in spreading misinformation. “To those driving this campaign with the support of foreign agencies — do what you will. As for us, we will do whatever it takes to make Pakistan stronger, InshAllah,” he added.

Chairman Senate and former Prime Minister Yusuf Raza Gilani also dismissed the reports, calling them “pure disinformation.”

The series of official rebuttals from key government figures and allies underscores a united stance against what is widely perceived as a politically motivated smear campaign.

Source: Web Desk