Stability, Rule of Law Depend on Bringing May 9 Culprits to Justice: Military
The country’s military leadership emphasized the necessity of bringing the planners, perpetrators, abettors, and facilitators of the May 9 riots to justice for the collective good of Pakistan. The Pakistan Army asserted that without swift and transparent justice, stability would remain compromised by these elements.
This stance was articulated during the 83rd Formation Commanders Conference at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, presided over by Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir. The conference was attended by Corps Commanders, Principal Staff Officers, and all Formation Commanders of the Pakistan Army.
The statement from the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) highlighted that the forum took place weeks after the first anniversary of the May 9, 2023 riots, which caused significant damage to state institutions. These riots followed the arrest of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan, leading to widespread protests and destruction of property.
The military leadership condemned the politically motivated digital terrorism, supported by foreign conspirators, aimed at undermining state institutions and spreading disinformation. They emphasized that the nation is aware of these malicious intentions and is committed to defeating these nefarious forces.
The forum was briefed on the current geo-strategic environment, emerging national security challenges, and the Army’s strategy to counter multi-domain threats. It also discussed technological advancements to modernize the Army and enhance logistic support to field formations.
The ISPR statement expressed concerns over ongoing cross-border violations from Afghanistan, highlighting the use of Afghan territory by Pakistan’s adversaries to target security forces and civilians. The forum acknowledged the sacrifices of the people in newly merged districts (NMDs) in the fight against terrorism and stressed the importance of their development.
Additionally, the forum emphasized the need for socio-economic progress in Balochistan to counter foreign-sponsored narratives of exclusion and to promote peace and progress among the youth.
The military leadership reaffirmed its support for government initiatives aimed at sustainable economic growth and combating illegal activities, including smuggling, hoarding, electricity theft, and safeguarding the national database.
COAS General Munir praised the high training standards displayed by formations during various exercises and their excellent performance in counter-terrorism operations. He commended the formations for their high morale and operational readiness.
The forum also expressed satisfaction with the measures taken for the welfare of serving and retired officers and troops. It celebrated the achievements marked on Youm-e-Takbir and their stabilizing impact on the region.
Regarding the situation on the Eastern border and the recent extra-judicial killings in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), the forum expressed solidarity with the Kashmiri people in their struggle for self-determination as per UNSC Resolutions. The leadership also condemned the treatment of minorities in India and the rise of fascism for political gains.
The forum voiced strong support for the Palestinian people, condemning human rights violations in Gaza and supporting the International Court of Justice’s decision to halt the Rafah Operation.
The conference concluded with a firm commitment to neutralize all threats to Pakistan’s security and stability, backed by the support of the nation. The military leadership also paid tribute to the sacrifices of martyrs from the armed forces, law enforcement agencies, and citizens who died for the country’s safety and sovereignty.
