Outgoing CJCSC Gen Mirza honoured in Grand Farewell Ceremony at Naval HQ

ISLAMABAD – Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) General Sahir Shamshad Mirza made powerful farewell visit to Naval Headquarters, marking one of his final and most symbolic appearances in uniform.

As country’s second most senior official arrived at Naval Headquateres, a smartly turned-out contingent presented dignified guard of honour, setting an atmosphere of grandeur befitting country’s top military leadership.

General Mirza then called on Chief of the Naval Staff (CNS) Admiral Naveed Ashraf in a standout moment. CJCSC lavished praise on Pakistan Navy, applauding its “exceptional combat readiness” and its unwavering determination to defend Pakistan’s maritime frontiers at all costs.

Admiral Ashraf responded with equal warmth, thanking the outgoing CJCSC for his pivotal leadership and for strengthening the bond of jointness among Pakistan’s Tri-Services.

The high-profile farewell encounter not only underscored the respect shared between the armed forces’ senior-most commanders but also highlighted the enduring legacy General Mirza leaves behind as he steps away from his prestigious role.

Last CJCSC of Pakistan

Amid major restructurng of Pakistan’s military leadership, General Sahir Shamshad Mirza is set to go down in history as 18th Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC). He will step down on November 27, 2025, officially closing the chapter on a role that has existed for nearly half a century.

The development follows adoption of 27th Amendment to the Constitution, which ends the role altogether once General Mirza completes his tenure. For first time since 1976, Armed Forces will move forward without this post. General Mirza will finish full 3-year term—an orderly exit compared to the surprisingly brief and turbulent tenures of some predecessors.

CJCSC position was introduced some five decades ago when General Muhammad Sharif became first to hold the post after being appointed by then PM Zulfikar Ali Bhutto on March 1, 1976. Over the years, only two Navy officers Admiral Muhammad Sharif and Admiral Iftikhar Ahmad Sarohi have reached the office, and only one Air Force officer, Air Chief Marshal Farooq Feroz Khan, served at this position.