General Syed Asim Munir, the head of the Pakistani Army, experienced a public display of dissent during his visit to Washington. A group of Pakistani protesters gathered outside his hotel, voicing their disapproval through chants and slogans aimed at the General. Protesters shouted slogans such as “Pakistaniyon ke qatil,” “You are a coward,” and “Shame on you.” When Munir exited the hotel, the protesters attempted to enter the building but were stopped by authorities, leading to arguments. The demonstration was reportedly organized by supporters of Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI). PTI supporters had announced their intentions to protest Munir’s visit in advance. PTI shared a video on social media of the protest, emphasizing the demonstrators’ purpose to hold General Munir accountable for alleged wrongdoings against the Pakistani people. A screen in the video featured Asim Munir’s image alongside the messages “Mass Murderer Asim Munir,” “Democracy dies when guns speak,” and “Asim Munir, your time is up. Pakistan will rise.” Earlier, the Pakistani federal cabinet approved General Asim Munir’s promotion to Field Marshal, despite critiques of military performance. The government cited his leadership during Operation Bunyanum Marsoos and the confrontation with India as justification. Munir is the second army officer to achieve the rank of Field Marshal in Pakistan. The first was Ayub Khan, who was also Pakistan’s president from 1958 to 1969; his promotion to this rank was self-granted after he seized power in a coup.
