Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir, addressing garrison officers and soldiers at the Corps Headquarters in Lahore, emphasized that leaders who portray themselves as victims of the May 9 riots would face accountability for their actions. He asserted that those involved in organized violence and sabotage would be held responsible, citing irrefutable evidence of their complicity.
During his visit to the Lahore Garrison, the army chief laid a floral wreath at the Martyrs’ Monument, honoring those who sacrificed their lives for the country. He received a briefing on the formation’s operational readiness.
The army’s media wing issued a statement marking the one-year anniversary of violent attacks on military and civilian installations on May 9, 2023, following the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. Designating May 9 as “the black day,” the statement vowed not to allow the perpetrators of the conspiracy to evade justice.
General Munir commended troops for their dedication and professionalism, highlighting their resilience against digital terrorism aimed at creating divisions between the armed forces and the people. He stressed that every soldier prioritizes duty over personal affiliations, making daily sacrifices for the nation.
Reflecting on the events of May 9, General Munir condemned the orchestrated violence that tarnished the symbols of state and national unity. He denounced attempts to distort the narrative and implicate the state, vowing no compromise with the perpetrators.
Addressing those who may have been misled into participating in the violence, he noted they had been given the benefit of the doubt, per the Supreme Court’s direction.
General Munir assured officers and soldiers that the army would not tolerate disrespect towards martyrs or the institution. He reiterated the commitment to bring the planners and perpetrators of the May 9 attacks to justice.
Inaugurating the Jinnah Library at the Lahore Garrison, General Munir remarked on honoring the memory of Quaid-e-Azam amidst the ruins left by destructive forces, emphasizing the army’s role as a constructive force.
Upon his arrival, General Munir was welcomed by the Commander Lahore Corps.
