Government Rejects Talk of Internal Disagreement
Pakistan’s Adviser to the Prime Minister, Rana Sanaullah, has pushed back against claims of disagreement over the new Chief of Defence post. Speaking on a private news programme, he said the government holds a united position on the appointment.
Rumours about delays, he argued, do not match the actual situation. According to him, some commentators created the impression of political tension without evidence. The adviser noted that the administration is not debating the appointment; officials are simply completing the required legal steps.
Newly Created Role Needs Structured Rules
The Chief of Defence position emerged after a recent constitutional amendment. Because it is new, the government must define its rules and outline the office’s structure. That process takes time, he explained, but follows standard administrative practice.
Other national security reforms have required similar preparation, including the recent extension of Asim Munir as Army Chief under Pakistan’s defence reforms. For example, the formation of the National Security Division involved long consultations. Reforms at the Joint Staff Headquarters also moved in stages. These comparisons, he said, show that the current pace is normal and not a sign of conflict.
A solid legal framework, in his view, will help the new office function from day one. Strong rules will also reduce confusion when the role becomes active.
Adviser Criticises Speculation in Media Coverage
Much of the noise, Rana Sanaullah added, comes from unnecessary debate on television channels. Many outlets have broadcast unverified claims about delays or disagreements. He pointed out that the Prime Minister’s Office saw no need to release a clarification. Officials prefer to issue a statement only when all formalities conclude.
He asked journalists to avoid premature commentary. In his view, early speculation often inflates minor procedural steps into political controversies. A measured response, he said, would help viewers understand the situation more clearly.
Some broadcasts, he noted, even suggested hidden divisions within state institutions. He labelled these suggestions misleading because the government and relevant bodies remain on the same page.
Notification Expected Within Days
A formal notification, according to Rana Sanaullah, will arrive within the next three to four days. Final paperwork is under way, and officials are closing the last administrative details.
Progress on the file remains steady. No institutional roadblocks exist, he said, and the timeline has not shifted. The adviser asked the public to allow the process to finish without added pressure.
Once the government completes the legal and procedural steps, it will share the decision publicly. At that point, the final announcement will end speculation about the appointment.
Public Interest in the New Position Grows
Attention around the new role continues to rise. Pakistanis want to know how the Chief of Defence will coordinate across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. A detailed job description has not yet been released, but analysts expect the office to support long-term defence planning.
Experts also believe the role may strengthen joint operations. Better coordination, they argue, could improve the country’s strategic response during crises. Enhanced cooperation between civilian and military institutions may follow as well.
Because the post is new, interest in potential candidates remains high. This attention fuels much of the media debate that the adviser criticised.
Final Stage Before Official Announcement
Rana Sanaullah concluded his interview with a request for patience. He said the government will deliver a clear announcement once the legal process ends. All stakeholders, he added, understand the timeline and support the approach.
The upcoming notification, in his view, will answer the questions now circulating in the media. He assured the public that officials are committed to transparency and accuracy as they introduce this significant new position.
