Asim Munir stated that Pakistan is a country founded in the name of Islam and is now moving towards what he described to be its true purpose. (Image X @SyedAsimMunir)
Islamabad: Pakistan Army chief Field Marshal Asim Munir has once again attracted global attention with his religious stance. Speaking at an event in Lahore on Monday, Asim Munir stated that Pakistan is a country founded in the name of Islam and is now moving towards what he described to be its true purpose.
Asim Munir has made several such statements since last year, clearly reflecting his right-wing ideology. This ideology is also impacting the Pakistani Army, which under Munir's leadership, is increasingly transforming into a religiously oriented force. The dream of the Islamization of the Pakistani army was first envisioned by former military dictator Zia-ul-Haq in the 1980s, and Munir now appears to be fulfilling that dream.
According to an India Today report, one significant impact of Asim Munir's influence on the Pakistani army is that military spokespersons are using terms like "Fitna al-Khawarij" and "Fitna al-Hindustan" for insurgent groups. The terms "Fitna" and "Khawarij" originated in 7th-century Arabia and refer to evil elements that spread unrest in society. By adopting these terms, the Pakistani army is attempting to connect itself to the era of the Prophet and the Caliphs in Arabia.
The most significant efforts to shift the Pakistan Army away from English culture and towards ‘Islamization’ occurred during the time of General Zia-ul-Haq. As Pakistan Army chief, General Zia-ul-Haq overthrew then Pakistan Prime Minister Zulfiqar Bhutto in a coup and seized power in 1977. He then initiated the Islamization of Pakistani society and the Pakistan Army. After Zia, Munir has garnered the most attention in this regard.
Since Munir assumed command of the Pakistani army, experts have consistently seen similarities between him and Zia. He is continuing the Islamization of the army that began during Zia's time. Asim Munir is frequently seen at public events speaking about the Pakistani army receiving divine help and reciting verses from the Quran. He has also made statements supporting the Two-Nation Theory and the idea of Hindus and Muslims being separate nations. Munir is Zia's true heir
"The dream that General Zia-ul-Haq envisioned and which General Pervez Musharraf failed to achieve now seems to be coming true," said Makhdoom Ali Khan, a prominent lawyer from Karachi.
"Munir appears to be the true heir of Zia, who overthrew Bhutto and laid the foundation of a radical Islamic state. Munir might just fulfill Zia's grand vision," he added.
Khan said that for decades, senior officers of the Pakistani army have been identified as Sandhurst-trained, lovers of Western music, and whiskey drinkers. Senior officers have emphasized the image of a professional soldier. On the other hand, Asim Munir is a Hafiz-e-Quran (one who has memorized the entire Quran), abstains from alcohol and music, and speaks openly about religious matters.
Experts say that the Islamization of the Pakistani army is a cause for concern for the world, and especially for India. This is particularly worrying because Asim Munir has significantly consolidated his power. He is expected to wield influence over Pakistan for the next few years, which will give him the time to realize his vision.
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