Pak Army supports democratic process says Kiyani

Rawalpindi, Mar 7: Pakistan's Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Ashfaq Kiyani has reportedly said that the Army supported the evolving democratic process in the country because confrontation at any level between the defence personnel and the civil society won't be in the larger interest of the nations in the present circumstances. The COAS observed that a false impression was being created about the "distancing of the Army from the President". "The Army fully stands behind the democratic process and is committed to play its constitutional role in support of the elected government. Any kind of schism, at any level, under the circumstances would not be in the larger interest of the nation," the Daily Times quoted the COAS as saying.

This is considered the most significant statement made by Gen Kiyani since taking over the reins of the Army about the country's political situation and army's relationship with the future government. Addressing a meeting of corps commanders, he reaffirmed that the Army would fully support the democratic process in the country by playing its constitutional role, and expressed hope the Army would not be dragged into any more controversies. He also expressed hope that a harmonious relationship would be established between the pillars of state, as enshrined in the Constitution. Kayani said the Army would stay out of the political process and reaffirmed the Army's commitment to the solidarity and integrity of Pakistan. This could only be achieved with the full support of the people of Pakistan, he added.

ANI