Process for appointment of next COAS will start from Oct-end or November: Khawaja Asif

Defence Minister, Khawaja Asif, has revealed that the process for the appointment of a new Chief of Army Staff (COAS) will either start by the end of this month or the beginning of the next and that it will be done in line with the law and constitution.

In a press conference on Wednesday (today), the minister stressed that it is the discretion of the sitting prime minister to pick any name which has been recommended by GHQ (General Headquarters).

He stated that anyone from among the five nominated names could be appointed as the next chief of army staff. However, he pointed out that in the past, names other than the five suggested have also been chosen for the military chief’s position.

Speaking about the appointment of the army chief on the basis of seniority, the defence minister said: “All three-star generals are eligible for this post”.

During the conference, the minister said that the army is currently fighting against terrorism and the nation should support it.

Taking a jibe at PTI Chairman Imran Khan’s apprehension over the appointment of COAS, Asif said that he is anxious as November is approaching.

The present COAS, General Qamar Javed Bajwa, will be completing his extended term in November this year. He was appointed to this position in 2016.

Recently, COAS Bajwa — who is currently in the US— reiterated his promise to leave office after completing his second three-year term in November.