Lt. Gen. Asim Malik Appointed New Pakistan’s ISI Chief

October 3, 2024

Lt. Gen. Muhammad Asim Malik has been appointed as the new Director General of Pakistan’s Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), taking over from Lt. Gen. Nadeem Anjum. This change comes at a time when Pakistan is facing growing security risks and political unrest, particularly due to tensions from supporters of jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Background of Lt. Gen. Malik

Lt. Gen. Malik is 59 years old and comes from a military family—his father, Lt. Gen. Ghulam Muhammad Malik, also served in the army. He studied at the University of Balochistan and continued his education at well-known defence institutions in the U.S. and U.K. During his military training at the Pakistan Military Academy, he won the prestigious ‘Sword of Honour,’ a recognition given to the best cadet.

His Military Career

Lt. Gen. Malik has had a long and distinguished military career. He served in important roles within the Balochistan infantry division and led operations as a commander in Waziristan, a region troubled by militancy. He was also a chief instructor at Pakistan’s National Defence University, where senior military officers are trained. In addition, he holds a doctorate in U.S.-Pakistan relations, making him the most academically qualified ISI chief in history.

Appointment Process

Even though the Prime Minister of Pakistan formally appoints the ISI chief, the military plays a significant role in the decision. Usually, the Chief of Army Staff recommends candidates for the position, but political factors can influence the final choice, as seen in Lt. Gen. Nadeem Anjum’s term, which was marked by some controversy.

Pakistan’s military is focusing on actions against Imran Khan and his supporters, indicating internal tensions. A former ISI chief, Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed, who was close to Khan, is currently facing a court-martial, showing the power shifts within the military and the government. Lt. Gen. Malik will have to manage these complex dynamics while leading the ISI.

Strategic Responsibilities

As head of the ISI, Lt. Gen. Malik will oversee critical aspects of Pakistan’s foreign policy, particularly about countering terrorism and managing the country’s relationship with Afghanistan. His experience and connections with Western military institutions will likely be useful in handling these challenges. His leadership is crucial in ensuring security and stability during a time of political uncertainty in Pakistan.

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