Army’s top brass vows zero tolerance for violence ‘in the name of political activity’ during elections

Pakistan Army asserted on Wednesday that no one would be allowed to indulge in violence “in the name of political activity” and sabotage the “democratic exercise of conduct of free and fair elections”, the military’s media wing said.

It was said after the 262nd Corps Commanders’ Conference (CCC) held at General Headquarters (GHQ), presided over by General Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

Election security: Federal cabinet approves deployment of armed forces

“Pakistan Army will perform assigned duties as per the Constitutional mandate, under the guidelines of ECP,” statement from the Inter Services Public Relations Pakistan (ISPR) read.

The forum also discussed deployment of Pakistan Army to assist the Election Commission of Pakistan (ECP) in the peaceful conduct of General Elections 2024, scheduled for February 8.

It paid rich tribute to the supreme sacrifices of Shuhadas, including officers and men of the Armed Forces, Law Enforcement Agencies and the citizens who have laid their lives for ensuring peace and stability in the country.

The forum resolved that terrorists, their facilitators and abettors, “working on behest of hostile forces to destabilise Pakistan, will be dealt with full might of the state”.

At least 4 dead, 5 injured in blast at PTI rally in Balochistan’s Sibi

As per the ISPR statement, the COAS stated that Pakistan’s sovereignty and territorial integrity are “sacrosanct and inviolable”.

Pakistan believes in peaceful co-existence with all states, however, there would never be any compromise over country’s sovereignty, national honour and aspirations of Pakistani people, he said.

Iran FM in Pakistan for talks after tit-for-tat air strikes

The forum was also briefed on the “callous Indian campaign of extra-territorial and extra-judicial killings, perpetuating state-sponsored terrorism and targeting Pakistani citizens”.

According to details, the Army’s top brass agreed that “blatant violation of international laws by India and its real face be exposed to the world.”

The forum also reiterated unequivocal support for Palestine and the people of Gaza while noting the extremely negative fallout of the conflict and the potential to spill over in the wider region.

“The immediate need for a permanent ceasefire and enduring solution to the Palestinian question was unanimously recognised. In the same vein, Pakistan’s resolve to support the people of IIOJK for their right of self determination was reiterated. Pakistan would continue to morally, politically and diplomatically support Kashmir brothers and sisters till justice is served in accordance with relevant UNSC resolutions,” the ISPR statement read.

Pakistan welcomes World Court’s ruling, reiterates call for immediate ceasefire in Gaza

Meanwhile, the forum acknowledged and appreciated the steps taken against spectrum of illegal activities and criminal mafias, including smuggling, hoarding, money laundering, power theft and illegal aliens.

“The participants emphasised that such actions and their positive impact on the economy and well being of the people need to continue without any let up.”

The forum was briefed on operational preparedness of the formations. COAS asked formation commanders to continue their focus on the training, administration and morale of the soldiers, the military’s media wing said.