Why Is Shehbaz Sharif Reluctant to Make Asim Munir the CDF? Plane Diverts to Lahore, Fuels Speculation of a Sharif Power Game

The constitutional amendment in Pakistan may have cleared the path for Army Chief General Asim Munir to become the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), but the powerful Sharif family appears unwilling to let that happen. The decision on Munir’s elevation has been delayed repeatedly, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s unexpected diversion to Lahore after returning from London has triggered fresh speculation.

Shehbaz’s Flight Diverted — A Political Signal?

ISLAMABAD: The appointment of General Asim Munir as Pakistan’s first CDF continues to hang in the balance. Hours after landing in Pakistan from his London visit, PM Shehbaz Sharif’s aircraft—expected to arrive in Islamabad—was redirected to Lahore on Tuesday.

The sudden change of destination instantly activated intelligence and political circles both within Pakistan and abroad. Sources say this was neither accidental nor procedural; instead, it followed key internal discussions within the Sharif family regarding high-level military appointments.

Sharif Family Blocking Munir’s Elevation

Reports indicate that despite a constitutional amendment clearing Munir’s way to become the CDF, the Sharif family is resisting the move. The notification has been postponed several times—and Shehbaz’s diversion to Lahore has resulted in yet another delay.

According to News18, Shehbaz Sharif is expected to return to Islamabad on Wednesday, where the timing of the CDF notification may finally be decided.

Nawaz Sharif Allegedly Opposes the Notification

Sources claim that former PM and PML-N supremo Nawaz Sharif is strongly opposed to issuing the CDF notification. The matter has become a point of friction between Pakistan’s political leadership and the military establishment.

Not only the CDF post but several senior and strategic military appointments are also under debate. A PML-N insider reportedly told News18 that Nawaz Sharif and Maryam Nawaz are attempting to influence key postings, pushing for officers they consider loyal and trustworthy.

Fear of Another ‘Bajwa-Era’ Shock

A source explains that the Sharif family seeks “security guarantees” within the military structure. Their concern: without loyal officers in vital positions, the family could face circumstances similar to those during General Bajwa’s era—marked by political turbulence and institutional clashes.

Experts believe that the persistent delay in the CDF notification is a clear indicator of widening cracks between Pakistan’s military and political leadership.

Government Denies Reported Objections

Amid growing speculation, the Pakistani government has rejected claims that Nawaz Sharif was blocking the CDF appointment. PM’s political adviser Rana Sanaullah stated that all constitutional amendments were approved with Nawaz’s consent.

Calling the CDF an essential institution, Sanaullah said the notification would be issued “at the appropriate time” following the Prime Minister’s return.