Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has dismissed widespread speculation over the delay in issuing the notification for the newly created Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) post, stating that establishing a new system “cannot be done simply by pressing a button.”

Addressing a press conference in Islamabad on Monday, Naqvi said, “Let these people speculate for a few more days. Changes have been made to the Constitution, and a new institution is being established. Some believe such things can happen instantly, but setting up a new system takes time.”

The interior minister added with a hint of humor, “Those who are profiting from this speculation — let them.”

Similarly, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif on Sunday rejected rumors about the CDF notification, assuring that the announcement will be made in due course. Writing on X, Asif said, “There is unnecessary and irresponsible speculation about the CDF notification. Please be informed that the process has been initiated. PM is returning shortly.” He emphasized that there is “no room for conjecture.”

Read More: Khawaja Asif says Chief of Defence Forces notification will be issued ‘in due time’

The CDF post was introduced through the 27th Constitutional Amendment earlier this month, replacing the former Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee under the amended Army Act. Field Marshal Asim Munir, currently serving as Chief of Army Staff (COAS), will also be appointed as the CDF.

The government will define the duties, functions, and responsibilities of the COAS and CDF, including oversight of multi-domain integration, necessary restructuring, and ensuring optimum jointness among the Armed Forces. With the issuance of the new notification, COAS Munir’s tenure will recommence for another five years. The provisions of Article 243 of the Constitution, applicable to a Field Marshal, will govern his appointment.