ISLAMABAD: In a year-end review on Geo News’s “Report Card,” senior journalists overwhelmingly selected Field Marshal Asim Munir as the most popular personality of 2025. Host Aleena Farooq Sheikh posed the question to a panel of eminent media figures, sparking a discussion on the year’s defining leaders.
Political analyst Fakhar Durani was the first to nominate Munir, stating, “I think Field Marshal Asim Munir,” while naming former Prime Minister Imran Khan as the second most relevant figure.
Senior anchorperson Shehzad Iqbal elaborated extensively on the choice. He credited Munir’s national and global headlines to his “brave leadership,” specifically citing the victory in a conflict with India. Iqbal highlighted Munir’s celebrated diplomatic role, noting his meeting with the American President and his handling of international tensions. He further pointed to Munir’s perceived impact on attracting investment and improving the economy. Iqbal concluded by referencing the historic military honors bestowed upon Munir—his promotion to Field Marshal, his appointment as the first-ever Chief of Defence Force (CDF), and the grant of lifetime immunity. In Iqbal’s ranking, Imran Khan placed second, with Punjab Chief Minister Maryam Nawaz securing third place due to her governance.
Investigative journalist Umar Cheema concurred with the consensus, stating, “I am agreed with both journalists.”
The panel’s verdict underscores the monumental year for the military leader, whose actions in national security, diplomacy, and statesmanship were deemed by these analysts to have dominated the public and political landscape, edging out prominent political figures for the top recognition.
The commitment came during a landmark virtual consultation session with the Quetta Balochistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (QBCCI). The forum highlighted Balochistan’s untapped potential in minerals, fruits, vegetables, olive oil, and meat, stressing the urgent need for value addition and modernization of production sectors.
