New Delhi: As Field Marshal Asim Munir takes on a larger role at the top of Pakistan’s military command, General Syed Aamer Raza has emerged as another senior military leader in the country’s reorganised defence structure.
The appointment follows changes introduced through Pakistan’s 27th Constitutional Amendment, enacted in November last year. The amendment also paved the way for Munir to become Pakistan’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).
However, Raza’s position does not give him the final say over the country’s nuclear arsenal. The National Command Authority, chaired by the prime minister, retains ultimate authority over nuclear policy and the use of strategic assets. Under the Army Act, the prime minister appoints the CNSC on the recommendation of the CDF from among serving army generals. The commander serves a three-year term. He was also involved in setting up the Army Rocket Force Command. Unlike some senior officers associated with Pakistan’s nuclear establishment, he has not served with the Strategic Plans Division or the Army Strategic Forces Command. He has also not held a direct role in Pakistan’s strategic missile programme.
He was involved in implementing organisational changes following the 27th Amendment and restructuring the military after last year’s conflict with India.
