POLITICS & POLICY MAKING
Advisor to the Prime Minister on Political Affairs Rana Sanaullah has clarified that the notification for the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) is not delayed due to any political reason, but because regulations and rules are being framed for the sensitive post.
Speaking to Geo News at the Parliament House, Sanaullah emphasized that the CDF is set to become a crucial institution in terms of national security. “The law for this post has been changed, and a lot of caution is required in framing its rules,” he said, dismissing speculation about a delay in notification.
He also addressed concerns over national security propaganda, stating that the government will not allow misinformation or hateful content targeting Pakistan’s security agencies from abroad. “No law allows propaganda related to national security,” he added.
Rana Sanaullah further warned Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Sohail Afridi, saying that if Afridi obstructs national security operations or facilitates terrorists, his political future would be bleak. However, he clarified that political speeches or lawful activities by Afridi should not be hindered.
On the matter of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, Sanaullah affirmed that the founder of PTI is entitled to B-class protocol and associated facilities, and the government will respect his rights. He criticized previous governments for not providing such legal facilities during Nawaz Sharif’s imprisonment. He added that any meetings with the PTI founder should not facilitate protests, agitation, or terrorism.
Regarding former ISI chief Lt. Gen. (retd) Faiz Hameed, Sanaullah said that decisions about his sentence are expected in December and no predictions should be made.
The advisor’s remarks underscore the government’s stance on national security, the sensitive role of the CDF, and the need to prevent political misuse of security-related issues.