Protests in Washington Target Pakistani Army Chief Asim Munir

During his stay in Washington, General Asim Munir, Chief of the Pakistani Army, was met with protests from a group of Pakistani citizens and individuals of Pakistani descent. The demonstrators assembled outside Munir’s hotel, expressing their disapproval through various slogans and chants. Among the slogans raised were, “Pakistaniyon ke qatil,” “You are a coward,” and “Shame on you.” As Munir left the hotel, the protesters attempted to enter the building but were prevented by security, leading to confrontations. The protest was reportedly organized by supporters of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party. PTI supporters had publicized their intentions to protest Munir’s visit. A video shared by PTI on social media displayed the protest, with the accompanying message highlighting the protesters’ aims to hold General Munir accountable for alleged actions against the Pakistani population. The video showed a screen featuring Asim Munir’s picture alongside slogans, including “Mass Murderer Asim Munir,” “Democracy dies when guns speak,” and “Asim Munir, your time is up. Pakistan will rise.” General Munir’s promotion to Field Marshal was approved by the Pakistani federal cabinet in May, despite concerns over military and strategic issues, with the government citing his leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the confrontation with India. Munir is only the second army officer to be promoted to Field Marshal in Pakistan’s history; Ayub Khan, who served as president from 1958 to 1969, was the first to hold this rank. Khan’s promotion was self-awarded after he seized power in a coup.