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Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Asim Munir declared May 25 as “Pakistan Martyrs Day” in a ceremony held at the General Headquarters in Rawalpindi. The announcement came in the wake of recent attacks on military installations and memorials, which the army chief described as “intolerable.” The ceremony, attended by senior military officers and families of martyrs, saw Gen Munir award military honours to officers and soldiers for their bravery and exceptional service to the nation.
During the event, Gen Munir emphasized the significance of the sacrifices made by martyrs and the contributions of ghazis (war heroes). He highlighted that the Pakistan Army is an institution that deeply values and remembers every individual associated with it and their families, emphasizing the strong bond that exists within the military community. The COAS also expressed his grief over the recent attacks and condemned such actions as unacceptable.
Gen Munir stressed that a strong army is vital for the security and unity of the country. He acknowledged the dedication of every soldier and officer of the Pakistan Army, who prioritize their duties and responsibilities above regional, linguistic, and political differences.
As part of the ceremony, 51 kins of martyrs were awarded the Sitara-e-Imtiaz (military) while 22 officers and soldiers received the Tamgha-e-Basalat. Additionally, two officers were presented with the United Nations Special Medal.
The decision to observe “Pakistan Martyrs Day” comes in the aftermath of the incidents that occurred on May 9, including the arrest of Imran in the Al Qadir Trust case, which triggered protests and instances of violence nationwide. The military has issued multiple statements condemning the attacks and vandalism, vowing to bring the perpetrators to justice through legal proceedings.
The National Security Committee, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, reaffirmed its commitment to try those involved in the May 9 violence under army laws. The army emphasized that the legal process of trial against the planners, instigators, abettors, and perpetrators of the tragedy has commenced under the Pakistan Army Act and Official Secrets Act, adhering to existing legal procedures derived from the constitution.
