Field Marshal Asim Munir’s Rise: A Turning Point in Pakistan’s Military History
The Dreamer in Uniform?
In a twist that stunned political analysts and military watchers alike, Pakistan promoted General Asim Munir to Field Marshal on May 20 — a title not used since the days of Ayub Khan. But this wasn’t just a ceremonial pat on the back. It was a strategic masterstroke — or, depending on who you ask, a delusional dream cooked up in khaki.
Veteran defence analyst Sandeep Unnithan didn’t mince words when he dubbed Munir the “Mungeri Lal” of Pakistan — a nod to the famous Indian character known for escaping into fantasies of greatness. And if you think this is just another military rank-up, think again. This is a power move cloaked in nostalgia and national insecurity.
The Title That Roared: What Field Marshal Really Means
Technically, Field Marshal is an honorary designation. It’s not supposed to come with additional command power. But when you remain Chief of Army Staff and also assume the title of Field Marshal — without naming a successor — it raises serious questions.
This dual-role makes Munir the unchallenged head of Pakistan’s most powerful institution. There’s no precedent for this in Pakistan’s history — not even in its long list of military takeovers.
A “Soft Coup” in Camouflage
Sandeep Unnithan calls it a “soft coup” — a scenario where the government isn’t overthrown, but power is reallocated behind the scenes. Instead of tanks in the streets, it’s all about silent maneuvers, PR spins, and reshuffling loyalties.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif may have publicly claimed the decision was his, but few in Islamabad or Rawalpindi believe that narrative. Instead, Munir seems to be scripting a new power doctrine — one where the military wears the crown while the civilians carry the blame.
Delusions of Grandeur? From Setback to Self-Styled Savior
Despite Pakistan’s humiliating setbacks in recent cross-border skirmishes, Munir has styled himself as a wartime savior. The irony? He’s promoting himself as a victor in wars that didn’t go well.
This rewriting of history is classic authoritarian theatre — rebranding failure as triumph, and weakness as strength. It’s Walter Mitty with military medals, or as Unnithan calls it — “Mungeri lal” (The Daydreaming General)?”
Ghosts of Dictators Past: Ayub, Zia, Musharraf… and Now Munir?
Munir’s rise echoes Pakistan’s earlier military rulers:
- Ayub Khan became Field Marshal and then seized power through a coup.
- Zia-ul-Haq Islamized Pakistan and ruled with an iron fist.
- Pervez Musharraf staged a bloodless coup and ran the country like a CEO.
Munir seems to be following a similar arc, minus the official coup. He prefers to let politicians soak up public pressure while he shapes policy from the shadows. It’s influence without responsibility — the most potent form of control.
The Laughing Stock? What India’s Military Thinks
And what do Indian military circles think of this bold play?
“It’s become a running joke,” says Unnithan. Indian officers reportedly see Munir’s promotion as a symbol of decline, not strength. “It’s not a professional army anymore,” he said, pointing to its deep entanglement in real estate, business, and proxy warfare.
It’s no longer about defending borders — it’s about defending legacies and illusions.
A Nation Held Hostage to Narrative
In a country reeling from economic collapse, political turmoil, and international isolation, the army remains the de facto power center. Munir’s elevation is a reminder that in Pakistan, optics trump outcomes, and rank outranks reason.
This move isn’t about battlefield brilliance or visionary leadership. It’s about controlling the story, reshaping history, and anchoring the military’s role as Pakistan’s eternal guardian — even when it stumbles.
Final Thoughts: The Power Play We Can’t Ignore
General Asim Munir’s promotion to Field Marshal is more than a line in the military’s HR file. It’s a warning flare. A sign that Pakistan’s generals are once again scripting a new chapter — one where fantasy, ego, and unchecked power are the dominant themes.
Will it backfire? Or will Munir succeed in becoming Pakistan’s new Ayub Khan — minus the uniformed coup? Only time (and possibly international pressure) will tell.
Want more real stories behind the ranks?
Subscribe to TN HEADLINES 24 for exclusive geopolitical breakdowns and deep dives into South Asia’s power games.
Most read: https://tnheadlines24.com/asim-munir/
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are based on publicly available information and expert commentary. TN HEADLINES24 does not endorse or take responsibility for the accuracy of third-party statements or speculative interpretations. Readers are advised to form their own judgments based on multiple sources.
