‘Itani Badnami…’: Pakistan FM’s Alleged Audio Slamming Army Chief Asim Munir Goes Viral | World News
A leaked audio clip purportedly featuring the Pakistani Foreign Minister triggered a political storm after he was heard harshly criticizing Field Marshal Army Chief General Asim Munir; This is a rare example of high-level dissent reflected in public discourse. In the recording, which went viral on Pakistani social media, the minister is seen complaining about the unprecedented level of criticism against the Chief of General Staff.
In the audio recording, the speaker says: “No Chief of General Staff has been abused and slandered as much as he is targeted by name today. Before, people would not even mention the name of the Chief of General Staff out of respect required by the position. He has no idea what happened to him. He knows what happened, but he does not know why.”
Although the authenticity of the audio recording has not been officially confirmed, the leak has reignited growing public discontent with Pakistan’s powerful military establishment, particularly Asim Munir.
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Leaked audio conversation of Pakistani Foreign Minister Ishaq Dar.. pic.twitter.com/h1Wn2KcCdY— UNKNOWN MAN (@Theunk13) 21 November 2025
This harsh criticism reflects several key factors that have made General Munir increasingly the target of ridicule and disappointment among some sections of the Pakistani public:
1. Deepening Economic Crisis
Pakistan’s economy continues to collapse under inflation, unemployment and IMF-led austerity policies. Many citizens blame the Army, seen as the country’s most powerful institution, for political interventions that disrupt the administration. As Army Commander, Munir became a symbol of this disappointment; critics argued that the military’s behind-the-scenes control worsened the economic freefall.
2. Political Turmoil
The army is widely accused of orchestrating the crackdown on former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s PTI party. Mass arrests, a media blackout and allegations of manipulation in the 2024 election have fueled anger.
3. The Erosion of Traditional Respect
Historically, Pakistanis have avoided publicly criticizing the Army due to its reputation and fear. But social media has changed this dynamic, enabling unprecedented criticism. Influencers, political operatives and even ordinary citizens now openly mock senior officials, including the Chief, eroding the once untouchable aura around the military leadership.
4. Civil-Military Friction
The leaked audio recording, if genuine, reveals rising tensions between the civilian government and the military; Tensions are often hidden behind closed doors. Public cracks in the power structure increase perceptions of institutional weakness, leading to greater ridicule from citizens and political rivals.
5. Unfulfilled Promises of Stability
When Münir took office, he promised political and economic stability. Nearly two years later, neither goal was achieved. Instead, Pakistan remains mired in diplomatic isolation, internal insecurity and economic distress, which has fueled public dissatisfaction.
