No extension: Opposition leaders welcome move

Imran Khan also welcomed Gen Raheel’s statement, noting that the move will strengthen the institution of the army


Our Correspondent January 25, 2016
Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) co-chairperson Asif Ali Zardari. PHOTO: AFP

ISLAMABAD:


The main opposition parties have welcomed army chief General Raheel Sharif’s announcement of retiring in November this year without seeking an extension to his tenure.


Former president and Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) President Asif Ali Zardari in a statement said that “it is good that the rumours, which claimed that the army chief was seeking an extension, have been set aside and a categorical statement made that Gen Raheel will not seek extension in service.”


He added that the army was a premier institution of the country, and will be best served if the tradition of extension in service is not allowed to gain roots.


Gen Raheel’s predecessor, Gen (retd) Ashfaq Pervez Kayani, had been granted a three year extension in 2010 when Zardari was president of Pakistan and his PPP was in power.


Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf chief Imran Khan also welcomed Gen Raheel’s statement, noting that the move will strengthen the institution of the army adding that nations are built on strong institutions.

Published in The Express Tribune, January 26th,  2016.

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