ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s army chief General Asim Munir said on Wednesday the country’s armed forces would not allow anyone to disrespect the soldiers who lost their lives while defending the country just days after violent protesters set government buildings on fire, targeted military installations, and defaced martyrs’ memorials.
The protests broke out on May 9 after former prime minister Imran Khan was arrested by paramilitary Rangers from a court in Islamabad on the instructions of the country’s anti-graft body.
The army chief issued the statement in the same context and laid a floral wreath on a martyrs’ monument while visiting Sialkot Garrison.
“The martyrs have been promised the highest abode in the life hereafter and shall continue to maintain the highest levels of respect among the people of Pakistan,” he was quoted as saying by the army’s media wing, ISPR. “The State of Pakistan and Armed Forces will always maintain all Shuhada [martyrs] and their families in very high esteem and continue to honor them and their supreme sacrifices with utmost respect and dignity.”
He added: “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.”
The army chief maintained that such “planned and orchestrated tragic incidents will never be allowed again at any cost.”
Later, he told officers and troops to focus on army’s professionalism and preparedness to deal with complex internal and external security challenges including propaganda warfare.
