In a recent development, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) Additional Secretary General, Umar Ayub Khan, has issued a directive on social media posts concerning the Pakistan Army.
The directive, which aims to manage the party’s public image and ensure discipline among its members, comes in the wake of increasing criticism of the armed forces on social platforms.
The directive emphasizes that PTI’s founding chairman, Imran Khan, has instructed all party leaders to refrain from criticizing the military.
Following the chairman’s directions, party leaders appearing on TV programs are advised to express positive views about the army.
Specifically, any negative remarks regarding Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir should be strictly avoided.
Party members, including MNAs and MPAs, who fail to adhere to these instructions will face disciplinary action.
Detailed Report:
In a bid to maintain harmony and respect for the armed forces, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf’s (PTI) Additional Secretary General, Umar Ayub Khan, has taken a firm stance against any derogatory remarks made about the Pakistan Army on social media.
This step is part of a broader initiative to foster a positive relationship between the party and the military.
Directive Overview:
The directive clearly outlines that PTI’s founding chairman, Imran Khan, has mandated all party leaders to avoid any form of criticism directed at the military.
This decision comes amid a climate of heightened sensitivity surrounding the role and reputation of the armed forces in Pakistan.
Key Points of the Directive:
- Refraining from Criticism: “Imran Khan has explicitly instructed all PTI leaders to cease any critical remarks about the military,” the directive states. This encompasses all platforms, particularly social media, where posts can quickly spread and influence public perception.
- Positive Representation in Media: The directive urges PTI leaders participating in TV programs to ensure they speak positively about the army. This is seen as a strategic move to maintain the army’s honor and support within the public sphere. “All leaders appearing in TV programs must express positive opinions about the army,” the document specifies.
- Special Mention of General Syed Asim Munir: A notable aspect of the directive is the special mention of Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir. PTI leaders are strictly advised against making any negative comments about him. “Particularly, avoid any negative remarks about Chief of Army Staff General Syed Asim Munir,” the guideline asserts.
- Disciplinary Actions for Non-Compliance: The directive also warns of disciplinary actions against any MNAs and MPAs who fail to comply with these instructions. Such measures underscore the seriousness with which the party views this issue. “Non-compliance with these instructions will result in disciplinary action under party rules,” it concludes.
Context and Implications:
This directive by Umar Ayub Khan is a clear indication of PTI’s efforts to align itself with the national sentiment that values and respects the military.
By doing so, PTI aims to avoid any potential friction that could arise from negative portrayals of the army and its leadership.
In the current political climate, where the role of the military is often a topic of intense debate and scrutiny, PTI’s move to curtail negative commentary about the armed forces is significant.
It reflects a strategic decision to maintain a positive rapport with an institution that plays a crucial role in Pakistan’s governance and security.
The directive issued by Umar Ayub Khan marks a pivotal step in PTI’s internal policy, emphasizing respect and positive portrayal of the Pakistan Army.
This move not only aims to preserve the integrity of the armed forces but also aligns PTI with a broader nationalistic sentiment that upholds the military as a vital pillar of the state.
As PTI leaders navigate their public and media engagements, adhering to this directive will be essential in maintaining party discipline and fostering a united front in their interactions with the military and the public.
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