Sindhi Group Protests Pakistan Army Chief’s Presence at Munich Security Conference
Munich, Germany – A Germany-based Sindhi political organization, the Jeay Sindh Muttahida Mahaz (JSMM), has voiced strong objections to the participation of Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, General Asim Munir, in the ongoing Munich Security Conference (MSC). The JSMM has labeled the invitation as “deeply regrettable” and is calling on international stakeholders to take note of what they describe as a pattern of human rights abuses within Pakistan.
Members of the JSMM demonstrated outside the conference venue, drawing attention to alleged human rights violations occurring in Pakistan. The group formally addressed a statement to the United Nations, the European Union, the German government, and various international human rights organizations, expressing “deep shock and regret” over General Munir’s presence at the high-level forum.
The Munich Security Conference is a globally recognized platform for dialogue and conflict resolution, bringing together world leaders, diplomats, and security experts annually to address critical international peace and security challenges.
In its statement, the JSMM alleges a long-standing history of human rights violations and political interference by Pakistan’s military establishment. The group specifically referenced the events of 1971 in former East Pakistan, which led to the creation of Bangladesh, characterizing them as genocide. They also accused Pakistan’s military and intelligence agencies of providing support to extremist groups operating in the region – allegations that Pakistani officials have consistently denied.
The JSMM further contends that the Pakistani military exerts disproportionate influence over the country’s political and judicial systems. The organization cited the assassinations of former leaders Liaquat Ali Khan and Benazir Bhutto, alongside the execution of former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto, as examples of instability linked to military dominance. The recent imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, attributed to tensions with the current military leadership, was also referenced.
The JSMM’s statement detailed further allegations of ongoing enforced disappearances and extrajudicial killings in Sindh, Balochistan, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and Pakistan-occupied Jammu and Kashmir.
The organization has urged the Munich Security Conference organizers to reconsider hosting General Munir, arguing that his participation legitimizes a regime they accuse of repression and regional destabilization. The JSMM also reiterated its demand for self-determination for the Sindh province.
The JSMM’s protest highlights the complex geopolitical landscape surrounding Pakistan and the ongoing concerns regarding human rights and political stability within the country. The conference provides a significant international stage, and the group’s actions aim to bring these concerns to the forefront of global discussion.
