DND Report
There is no doubt that journalism is changing and that journalistic norms are being compromised. However, it is expected that professional journalists remain the protectors of journalistic standards and that they understand the difference between an informal talk, a formal talk, and an interview.
Hundreds of reports in both mainstream and social media claim that COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir gave an “interview” to a senior Pakistani journalist while in Brussels. However, no clip of such a formal interview is available. There are also claims that the Field Marshal shared important points with journalists during his conversation. Official circles, however, have clarified that there was no formal press talk with anyone in Brussels—only an informal discussion took place, which should not be blown out of proportion or turned into a tempest in a teapot. The debate over what Field Marshal Asim Munir said or did not say is nothing more than an absurd attempt to drag the Army Chief’s informal meeting with overseas Pakistanis in Brussels into unnecessary controversy.
Official sources are of the view that certain elements are needlessly analyzing and misinterpreting the Army Chief’s recent informal talks with overseas Pakistanis in Brussels. Since speculation is spreading, it is important to clarify a few things.
First, it is confirmed that the Army Chief did not hold a one-on-one meeting with any journalist in Brussels. He was there to address a convention of overseas Pakistanis and met participants collectively. Naturally, the Army Chief may have had informal conversations with various people, but some are trying to create unwarranted suspicions, while in reality nothing of that sort happened.
Second, and more importantly, if the Army Chief stated that reconciliation can only happen after an apology, this is not something new. The DG ISPR has repeatedly said in press conferences that a sincere apology must first be offered by those who harmed the country—particularly in reference to the May 9 vandalism. If there is to be any discussion, it can only be with politicians. All political parties are a priority for the establishment.
Third, an apology does not mean that the military establishment will secure Imran Khan’s release from jail or strike a deal after the apology. The apology concerns the crimes committed by him and his supporters, while the legal cases faced by party leaders will continue to proceed according to the law. There should be no complacency in this matter.
Fourth, whenever Pakistan makes an economic leap, certain elements attempt to create political uncertainty that could harm the country’s progress. Political stability is a prerequisite for Pakistan’s financial well-being, and destabilizing efforts must be discouraged.
The responsible journalism is to report the truth and truth is that Filed Marshal had no formal discussion with media persons during his visit and those who are saying that COAS Field Marshal Asim Munir had interview them, they should provide the evidence of this interview.
