The former director general of the country’s top spy agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), Lieutenant General Rizwan Akhtar, has confirmed that army chief General Qamar Javed Bajwa has granted his request for an early retirement.
In an exclusive interview with Daily Express, Lieutenant General Rizwan, who is the President of the National Defence University (NDU) in Islamabad, stated, “I would take a break and spend time with my family.”
New obligation: President congratulates Lt. Gen. Akhtar “All official formalities and paperwork have been completed,” Lt. Gen. Rizwan added. On October 9, 2017, Lt. Gen. Akhtar will don his military uniform. However, he refused to discuss his plans for the future.
According to sources, Lt. Gen. Rizwan requested “premature release” on Saturday, citing “pressing personal commitments.”
He was quoted as saying, “I want everyone who knows me to respect my decision and not succumb or resort to speculation in any domain.” “Whenever needed, I will be available for any service in the army.”
Armed force boss hails ISI for ‘reinforcing public safety’
The previous spymaster proceeded to add that he had taken the choice with a “weighty heart yet with incredible fulfillment” to “hang my uniform on ninth October 2017 after near 35 years of committed dynamic dispatched administration”.
In addition, Lt. Gen. Rizwan expressed his sincere gratitude to all of his superiors, colleagues, and staff—including his family—for providing him with constant direction throughout his lengthy career.
He stated that serving in this great nation’s army was a source of great pride and honor for him.
Formal appearance: Lt-Gen Rizwan Akhtar approaches Mamnoon
Lt Gen Rizwan was appointed in the Outskirts Power Regiment in September 1982. He is a graduate of the National Defence University (NDU) Islamabad and Command and Staff College Quetta, as stated by the ISPR.
He likewise went to the US for a conflict course. In addition, Lt. Gen. Rizwan has held positions as director general of the ISI and DG Rangers Sindh. He has also commanded an infantry division and brigade in the Federally Administered Tribal Areas (Fata).
The Islamic Military Alliance Against Terrorism (IMAT), which is led by Saudi Arabia, is expected to include Lieutenant General Akhtar.