What powers does Field Marshal have in Pakistan army?

The federal government has promoted Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Syed Asim Munir to the rank of Field Marshal, recognising his leadership during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos—Pakistan's military response to recent hostilities with India.

The decision was announced following a federal cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.

A statement issued after the meeting credited Gen Munir for ensuring national security and leading the armed forces with strategic clarity during the operation.

Gen Asim Munir becomes only the second individual in Pakistan’s history to receive the rank of Field Marshal, after former President Ayub Khan in 1959.

The rank is an honorary five-star designation, awarded for extraordinary service and leadership, though it carries no operational command or constitutional authority.

Gen Munir previously served as the head of both Military Intelligence and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI)—a distinction unmatched among his predecessors.

He was appointed COAS in November 2022 and is also the first army chief to have received the Sword of Honour during training.