Coup in Pakistan Army? Asim Munir reportedly detained; General Sahir Mirza may succeed

Islamabad: Unconfirmed media reports circulating late Thursday night have raised speculation of a possible power struggle within the top ranks of the Pakistan Army, allegedly involving General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), and General Asim Munir, the current Chief of Army Staff (COAS).

According to media reports, General Mirza, who assumed office as the 18th CJCSC on November 27, 2022, maybe leading a faction within the military dissatisfied with General Munir’s leadership. The reports suggest mounting discontent over what is being described as General Munir's “personal agenda,” which critics allege has led the country into increasing domestic instability and international isolation.

While no official statement has been issued by Pakistan’s Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the alleged internal discord is being interpreted by some observers as a potential coup attempt or at the very least, a serious rift at the highest level of Pakistan’s military command.