Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir emphasized the importance of national unity and moderation, calling upon Ulema and Mashaikh to help steer society away from Fasad Fil Arz (anarchy), which he termed as the gravest crime. Addressing the National Ulema Convention on Thursday, General Munir highlighted that the Pakistan Army, guided by the principles of Islam, is committed to eradicating unrest and upholding Shariat and the Constitution.
“We swear to Allah that we will stand against anyone who attempts to create anarchy in the country, as Fasad Fil Arz is the biggest crime according to Almighty Allah,” stated the COAS. He pointed out that criminals and smugglers are fueling terrorism and spreading anarchy through social media. Despite these challenges, he assured that no power in the world could harm Pakistan, a nation destined to exist forever.
General Munir also urged religious leaders to promote tolerance and unity, and to combat extremism, drawing on the teachings of the Holy Quran which advocate for moderation in Deen (religion). He acknowledged the sacrifices of the people of Khyber Pakhtunkhwa and urged peaceful protests, stressing that Khwarij (extremists) pose the greatest threat.
In his remarks, the COAS also addressed the importance of respecting the Holy Prophet (SAW) and cautioned against adopting Western cultural ideals. He reiterated the significance of the Two-Nation Theory and the unresolved issue of Kashmir, urging the nation to learn from the plight of Palestinians and to protect and strengthen Pakistan.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, in his address, lauded the unprecedented cooperation between the political government and constitutional institutions, particularly the harmonious relationship with the army chief, describing it as a role model for the future. He expressed confidence that the unity and cooperation observed today are unmatched in his 40 years of political experience.
The prime minister praised General Munir’s speech, noting that it was deeply rooted in the teachings of the Holy Quran and the Hadiths. He echoed the COAS’s sentiments on the economic crisis, emphasizing that the solution lies in adhering to Islamic teachings. Shehbaz Sharif also called for national unity as the country approaches its 77th Independence Day, stressing the need to learn from both collective failures and successes to fulfill the objectives of Pakistan’s creation.
Addressing the issue of extremism, the PM highlighted the destructive role of Fitna al Khawarij, particularly in the context of Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan’s anti-Pakistan activities. He condemned the misuse of social media for spreading lies and propaganda, particularly after 2018, and criticized those who dishonor the sacrifices of army soldiers.
Referring to the May 9 attacks as one of the most heart-wrenching incidents in Pakistan’s history, Shehbaz drew parallels with the tragic events of 1971 and urged Ulema to help eliminate societal divisions. He emphasized the importance of the Islamic economic system and assured that no force could hinder Pakistan’s progress if the nation remains united.
The prime minister also addressed the ongoing economic challenges, expressing hope that the upcoming IMF programme would be the last. He assured that the government, in consultation with the COAS, is working on a comprehensive plan to ease the burden on inflation-stricken citizens, with provincial plans expected soon.
Meanwhile, the Pakistan Ulema Council, led by Hafiz Tahir Mahmood Ashrafi, announced its support for the COAS and PM’s stance, urging Islamic scholars to advocate for minority rights in Friday sermons across Pakistan.
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