ISLAMABAD: The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General Lt Gen Ahmed Sharif Chaudhry firmly denied any backchannel negotiations with former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
In an exclusive interview with a British media outlet recorded on May 18 at ISPR headquarters, the military spokesperson clarified the Pakistan Army’s position on political involvement and current security concerns.
He emphasized that the military strictly operates within the constitutional framework and serves the elected government of the day.
Lt Gen Sharif stated, “The military is not interested in talking to political parties,” making it clear that political dialogue remains the responsibility of politicians alone.
He expressed concern that political actors fabricate narratives about military involvement in politics to cover their own failures.
No Military Role in Politics
The ISPR chief reiterated that the Pakistan Army speaks to the state, not individual political factions.
He dismissed allegations that the military interferes in political affairs, highlighting the army’s neutral stance.
Lt Gen Sharif underscored that the military should not be dragged into political controversies or debates.
This statement comes amid ongoing political instability in the country and attempts to link the army to partisan agendas.
The military’s role is to protect the constitution and uphold national sovereignty, not to engage in political bargaining.
Commitment to Security and Civil Cooperation
Beyond politics, the army continues its support for civil sectors such as health, disaster relief, and infrastructure development.
Lt Gen Sharif cited the army’s pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic and ongoing polio vaccination campaigns.
He also addressed the complex security situation in Balochistan, mentioning hybrid warfare tactics by separatist groups and foreign propaganda efforts.
Regarding missing persons, the ISPR chief condemned illegal detentions and confirmed a judicial commission is actively investigating these cases.
On the issue of cross-border terrorism, Lt Gen Sharif pointed to militant sanctuaries in Afghanistan as persistent threats.
Pakistan has carried out targeted operations like Operation Bunyan-un-Marsoos to neutralize such dangers and safeguard its citizens.
He ended by affirming the army’s dedication: “A single Pakistani life is more precious than a thousand foreign ones.”
