Lieutenant General Muhammad Asim Malik has been appointed as the new director general of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), with his term beginning on September 30, 2024, according to a press release by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). He will be replacing Lieutenant General Nadeem Anjum, who had served as the head of Pakistan’s premier intelligence agency since October 2021.
General Malik’s appointment was announced by state broadcaster PTV News through its official X (formerly Twitter) account on September 23. With a distinguished military career and extensive experience in key positions, his leadership is anticipated to positively impact Pakistan’s intelligence apparatus.
A Distinguished Military Career
General Asim Malik, a graduate of the prestigious Fort Leavenworth in the United States and the Royal College of Defence Studies in London, brings with him a wealth of experience. He has served in various commanding roles, including the Balochistan infantry division and the infantry brigade in Waziristan. His military journey also saw him excel as an instructor at the National Defence University in Islamabad and the Command and Staff College Quetta, further solidifying his expertise in defense strategies.
Promoted to the rank of lieutenant general in October 2021, General Malik was also appointed as the army’s adjutant general at General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi. He has been awarded the Sword of Honour, underscoring his exceptional abilities and leadership during his training.
A Smooth Transition from Lt Gen Anjum
General Malik takes over from Lieutenant General Nadeem Anjum, who was appointed as the DG ISI in 2021 during Imran Khan’s tenure as prime minister. Lt Gen Anjum has had a remarkable career, having served in prominent roles including as the commander of Corps V in Karachi and leading Frontier Corps (North) in Balochistan.
Lt Gen Anjum’s appointment had come after a brief period of uncertainty between the military and the government in 2021. His tenure was marked by a stable command of the intelligence agency, ensuring the continuation of Pakistan’s internal and external security operations. He also commanded a brigade in Kurram Agency and led the Karachi Corps with distinction, maintaining operational integrity in complex environments.
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The procedure for appointing the ISI chief is traditionally handled by the army chief, who proposes three names to the prime minister for a final decision. While this procedure is not codified in the Constitution or the Army Act, it remains a key aspect of Pakistan’s governance.
General Malik’s appointment comes at a critical juncture for Pakistan’s security and intelligence, and his diverse expertise is expected to strengthen the ISI’s operational effectiveness. His extensive military background and international exposure make him well-positioned to navigate the evolving security challenges, both domestically and internationally.