New Chief of Defence Forces System Needs Time, Says Naqvi

News Desk 

Islamabad: Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi on Monday dismissed widespread speculation surrounding the delay in issuing the notification for the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) — a newly created top military post under the 27th Constitutional Amendment — stressing that establishing an entirely new institutional framework requires time.

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad, Naqvi criticised those spreading rumours, remarking: “Let these people speculate for a few more days. Constitutional changes have been made, and a new institution is being formed. They assume such things can be done just by pressing a button. Whenever a new system is created, it takes time.”

Taking a swipe at those politicising the matter, he added: “Those who are minting money out of these speculations — let them.”

His remarks came a day after Defence Minister Khawaja Asif also brushed aside conjecture about the timing of the CDF appointment, assuring that the announcement would be made at an appropriate time.

Read More: https://thepenpk.com/senate-endorses-27th-constitutional-amendment-bill/

In a post on X, Asif said: “There is unnecessary and irresponsible speculation about the CDF notification. Please be informed that the process has been initiated. The prime minister is returning shortly.”

He reiterated that the notification would be issued in due course and stressed that “there is no room for conjecture.”

The CDF post was introduced earlier this month through the 27th Constitutional Amendment, marking a significant restructuring within the defence framework.

During the press briefing, Naqvi also announced that the federal government, in collaboration with the Information Ministry and the National Cyber Crime Investigation Agency (NCCIA), is preparing to launch a large-scale crackdown on the spread of fake news on social media.

Claiming that “90% of news circulating on social media in recent days and weeks is fake,” he underscored the need for stringent measures to combat misinformation. However, he insisted that the government remains committed to upholding freedom of expression and the public’s right to critique.

Naqvi pointed out that while clear mechanisms exist for addressing false reporting in mainstream media — including complaints filed with the Pakistan Electronic Media Regulatory Authority (Pemra) — unchecked misinformation online poses a serious challenge. “Anyone can post any photo, craft a story as they wish, and publish it,” he said.