'We're not neutral, but...': Pakistan Army on chief Gen Bajwa's retirement postponed rumours, Imran Khan

Amid increased speculation that the Pakistani Army is pulling the strings of the country's political parties, the force tried to distance itself from the political discourse.

Days after Imran Khan lost the Prime Minister's throne after reportedly trying to sack the current Army chief, rumours regarding General Bajwa's tenure were addressed. The Pakistan Army's spokesperson stated that General Qamar Javed Bajwa is neither seeking an extension, nor will he accept it. Bajwa will retire as scheduled on November 29, 2022.

He was reportedly granted an extension in June 2020, five months before his scheduled retirement. Bajwa assumed the top post in 2016 when Nawaz Sharif was the Prime Minister.

Imran Khan and Bajwa reportedly clashed in 2021, over the appointment of the new chief of Pakistan's spy agency Inter-Services Intelligence, or ISI. Bajwa's choice was eventually appointed.

Meanwhile, the Army spokesperson said that the force should be kept away from the political discourse after major turmoil over the no-confidence motion. Major General Babar Iftikhar said, "We appeal to the people, and political parties, that the Army not be dragged into politics. We want to stay out of politics. Army should be kept out of political discourse. This attempt failed in the past, and god willing, will fail now. 'Neutral' is not the correct word to describe the stance of the Army, and other institutions. 'Apolitical' is a better description. Our constitutional and legal duties do not envision a political role."