Why didn't KP CM Gandapur attend Gen Asim Munir's field marshal ceremony?

Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur did not attend the formal ceremony held in Islamabad to elevate Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of field marshal.

The ceremony, held at Aiwan-e-Sadr on May 22, was attended by President Asif Ali Zardari, Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and the chief ministers of Sindh, Punjab, and Balochistan. Gandapur’s absence was notable, as he was the only chief minister who did not attend the event.

According to his spokesperson, Faraz Mughal, the KP chief minister was engaged in a party meeting focused on efforts to secure the release of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan. The former prime minister has been incarcerated since August 2023 in connection with multiple cases, including allegations of corruption and incitement to violence, which he claims are politically motivated.

The federal government’s decision to promote General Munir was made during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif. The elevation recognizes Munir’s leadership during military operations against India, particularly “Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos.”

Field marshal is the highest rank in the Pakistan Army, symbolized by a five-star insignia. This prestigious designation places Munir above the rank of general.

During the investiture ceremony, President Zardari expressed confidence in Munir’s leadership and praised his role during challenging times. Prime Minister Sharif commended the armed forces for their performance and credited military leaders for securing a strategic victory. Field Marshal Munir, speaking at the event, acknowledged the media’s contribution during the conflict and referred to it as a key pillar of the state.