Retirement debate

This refers to the article, ‘Doing the right way’ (February 29) by Syed Talat Hussain. Giving an extension to Gen Raheel Sharif is the sole prerogative of the government and for that it does not require anybody’s advice. Unfortunately, the extension issue has become a hot topic of discussion in our country since the introduction of glasnost by Gen (r) Mirza Aslam Beg. Nowhere in the world has such debate taken place while selecting heads of armed forces. In India, it is a routine matter to announce the appointment of the services chiefs three months in advance.

Gen Raheel’s intention not to seek second term in office should have ended all debate. But it is strange that people are still trying to make an issue out of it. The operation in North Waziristan will continue as planned because it has nothing to do with the retirement of Gen Raheel. He has done his duty.

Lt Col (r) Mukhtar Ahmed Butt

Karachi