Is Munir's Promotion a Stroke of Genius or a Joke?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Promotion of General Asim Munir to Field Marshal has sparked widespread debate.
- Critics liken it to a historical failure reminiscent of Ayub Khan.
- Social media reactions range from humor to outrage.
- Questions arise about military accountability and standards for promotion.
- Public trust in military leadership is potentially jeopardized.
New Delhi, May 20 (NationPress) In an event described as Pakistan's boldest promotional maneuver, General Asim Munir has been promoted to the esteemed rank of Field Marshal -- the pinnacle military designation in Pakistan, a title previously held by Ayub Khan, who is notorious for his defeat in the 1965 war against India.
History seems to suggest that this promotion may be more of a curse than a commendation.
As one user on X remarked, "He is the second Field Marshal of Pakistan. The first was Md. Ayub Khan, who faced defeat against India in 1965. Looks like history is repeating itself."
In Pakistan, it seems that defeat is being redefined as victory, while taking refuge in a bunker is seen as a new form of bravery.
Field Marshal for what purpose, exactly?
Social media erupted with laughter, sarcasm, and disbelief.
Another commentator quipped, "Failed Marshal Asim Munir promotes himself after leading the country to its recent military loss against India."
The rationale behind this promotion remains ambiguous—whether it was for strategic prowess or emotional fortitude during bunker confinement, which some suggest lasted longer than many Pakistani soap operas.
Flight over fight?
One viral meme posed the question: "Isn't this the same Field Marshal who fled the battlefield and took refuge in a bunker?" The answer is yes, and it seems that's the type of valor the Pakistan Army is now rewarding.
"Only in Pakistan..." moments flooded the internet, with users humorously suggesting that one can receive a promotion for failure.
"They must be mistaken. Perhaps they asked him to oversee Agriculture instead of the Armed Forces. To them, that must qualify as Field Marshal."
Meanwhile, many speculated whether the next title could be Khalifa: "If it were up to Pakistanis, they'd make him the Caliph."
At this juncture, it’s uncertain if the Pakistani Army is still operating based on strategy or simply reacting to dramatic WhatsApp messages.
What’s next? President Field Marshal?
Another user mockingly anticipated: "What’s next? President of Pakistan Field Marshal Asim Munir?!"
Honestly, that’s not out of the question.
In Pakistan, promotions appear to hinge more on connections than actual battlefield performance.
Ayub Khan also promoted himself — and subsequently crowned himself as President. At this rate, Asim Munir could soon hold titles such as Field Marshal, President, CEO of PIA, and Chief Editor of ISPR memes.
A viral post summed it up succinctly:
"Pakistan's Comedy of Errors:
War fought by the Air Force
Army Chief promoted
Army air defense in ruins
Army's sole contribution – filming tanks and hiding in bunkers."
Some users even questioned the criteria: "Since when did surviving a bunker stay become the standard for Field Marshal? Next, they'll promote someone for losing a tank in record time!"
Victory Parade... For a Defeat
"Pakistan Army logic: Be defeated by India, lose 11 airbases, declare 'victory', and then promote the boss to Field Marshal."
At this rate, ISPR may soon be producing a Netflix comedy special titled: "Field Marshal – Escape from the Field."
Final thoughts: Clown mulq (country) or comedic genius?
The most brutally honest verdict came in two unforgettable words: Clown Mulq (country).
Indeed, for a nation where retreat is recast as "tactical genius," and promotions are bestowed following embarrassment like thunder after lightning, this isn’t military strategy — it’s performance art.
Congratulations, Pakistan — your Field Marshal has officially elevated satire to the level of statecraft.