"Killer of Pakistanis!" – Asim Munir Faces Fiery Backlash in U.S., Protesters Call Him a Mass Murderer
Pakistan Army Chief General Asim Munir, currently on a five-day official visit to the United States, faced intense protests in Washington D.C. Organized by supporters of former Prime Minister Imran Khan's party, Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), the demonstrations saw expatriate Pakistanis openly denouncing Munir outside his hotel.
Protesters shouted slogans like “Asim Munir, you coward,” “Shame on you, mass murderer,” and “Killer of Pakistanis.” Video footage of the protest, which has gone viral on social media, shows demonstrators using vehicle-mounted projectors to display bold accusations such as “Mass Murderer” and “Butcher of Islamabad.”
The protest erupted as Munir was seen exiting a building, with demonstrators confronting officials who tried to prevent them from entering the premises. The scenes reflect growing anger among the Pakistani diaspora in the U.S., particularly those aligned with PTI, who have long accused the Pakistan Army of suppressing democratic voices.
PTI supporters protest Munir’s US visit
According to reports, the protest was pre-planned by PTI supporters in anticipation of Munir’s visit. PTI had earlier announced demonstrations outside the Pakistani Embassy in Washington to oppose the army’s alleged interference in civilian governance and to seek justice for political prisoners.
Munir’s visit aims to strengthen military and strategic ties between Pakistan and the United States. However, his arrival has sparked outrage due to his controversial role in domestic politics, particularly during the recent crackdown on PTI members following political unrest in Pakistan.
General Asim Munir has also been in the spotlight following military tensions with India, after which he received a high-profile promotion within Pakistan’s armed forces. Yet, for many protesting Pakistanis abroad, his legacy remains deeply contentious.