General Bajwa says army’s interference in politics is unconstitutional

RAWALPINDI: Outgoing army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa said that army’s interference in politics is violation of constitution.

He said that in Feb 2022, army decided to stay away from politics. General Bajwa stated this on Wednesday afternoon while addressing a ceremony held at GHQ in connection with the Martyrs Day.

General Bajwa, who is retiring on Nov 29, reminded the civilians of all the services and sacrifices rendered by the military, especially those beyond its mandate.

He observed that the days of crutching on the military may be at an end as the institution has decided to remain ‘neutral’, deeming that “military’s interference in politics is unconstitutional”.

The ceremony began after COAS Bajwa laid floral wreaths in a ceremony at the martyrs monument in GHQ in Rawalpindi.

Arm chief said that the army had initiated the process of its “catharsis” and political parties should also follow suit and reflect on their behaviour.

“This is the reality that there have been mistakes from every institution, including political parties and civil society,” he said.

“No single party can take Pakistan out of the current economic crisis,” he said, adding that lessons should be learned from such mistakes so the nation could move forward.

Outgoing COAS Bajwa said, “We cannot repay the sacrifices rendered by the martyrs, they will also not allow them to go in vain.”

“I pray that in the coming days that the military will continue its streak of success,” he said.

General Bajwa also urged the political parties to set aside their differences and work for the survival and prosperity of Pakistan.