Pakistan’s army chief, Asim Munir, was recently ridiculed in New York’s Times Square, where he was branded a ‘Fraud Marshal’ and a ‘loser.’ The video, now going viral on social media, also targeted the country’s Prime Minister, Shehbaz Sharif, as both leaders faced harsh mockery. Other slogans demanded a polygraph test over Munir’s recent claims regarding India, suggesting his elevation to the country’s highest military rank was politically motivated rather than earned through battlefield success.
One billboard read, “Good work makes you stand tall, not fake titles,” alongside a photo of Imran Khan. Another described Munir, President Asif Ali Zardari, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif as “The Deceiver with His Two Crooks.”
Controversial promotion of Asim Munir
General Munir’s promotion to Field Marshal—a title traditionally bestowed after major military victories—has come under sharp scrutiny. Many argue that the move lacks merit, especially given Pakistan’s recent setbacks in its military standoff with India. According to a report by the Pakistan-based Geo News, the promotion had been approved for “ensuring the security of the country government approved the promotion of COAS Gen Munir to the rank of field marshal for ensuring the security of the country and defeating the enemy via best strategy and courageous leadership during Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos”. Pakistan has repeatedly claimed victory in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor — with Sharif recently praising the armed forces for mounting an “effective response” to alleged Indian aggression.
The protest has gained significant traction online. Social media users widely criticised Munir, calling him a “liar” and a “fraud,” while some dubbed him the “Failed Marshal.” The rare public criticism of Pakistan’s powerful military establishment—especially from overseas Pakistani communities—highlighted growing discontent over alleged political repression and suppression of dissent.
Many have linked the protest to Munir’s role in the crackdown on Imran Khan and his supporters, including the former premier’s imprisonment. One user described Pakistan under military influence as a “global embarrassment.”
