Political leaders react to appointment of new army chief

Political leaders on Saturday presented mixed reactions on the appointment of General Qamar Javed Bajwa as the new Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

Some extended their best wishes while others talked about challenges the new chief will have to tackle.

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif expressed his good wishes for the new army chief and said, “The military policy would continue and there would be no immediate change in it”.

“Country’s eastern border will remain the focus and the armed forces backed by the nation will meet all challenges,” he said, while speaking to a local news channel. He further said that the legacy of General Raheel Sharif would continue in the light of the examples he set.

The defence minister expressed the hope that the government and military leadership will continue to work together for the betterment of the country.

Leader of Opposition in National Assembly Khursheed Shah said that the nation’s prayers were with the new army chief, adding that he hoped the new COAS will follow in the footsteps of his predecessor.

Pakistan Tehrek-e-Insaf (PTI) chief Imran Khan also congratulated the new army chief and the CJCSC, while Jamaat-e-Islami (JI) leader Siraj ul Haq said the appointment of the COAS in accordance with formal procedures was a good omen.

Pakistan People’s Party (PPP) central leader Senator Sherry Rehman also took to twitter and reacted to the appointment and said: “Announcement of COAS should ease riot of speculation in the media. Looking forward to a renewed operational commitment against ALL terrorists.”

Muttahida Qaumi Movement (MQM) Pakistan leader Farooq Sattar expressed the hope that that General Bajwa will continue with the policies of General Raheel Sharif to fight terrorism.

Awami National Party (ANP) leader Zahid Khan said border situation and tensions with India would be a bigger challenge for the new army chief, than terrorism.

Earlier today, Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif picked up General Qamar Javed Bajwa as the 16th Chief of Army Staff (COAS), putting an end to weeks of speculations pertaining to appointment on the powerful post.

General Bajwa will assume the office on November 29.