Islamabad, July 23: Pakistan’s powerful army chief General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani has been given a three-year extension to ensure that the current heads of government, military and judiciary are in a “secure position” till 2013, the Pakistan Prime Minister, Mr Yousuf Raza Gilani, said on Friday, ending months of suspense over the top General’s future.
General Kayani, 58, was to retire on November 28. Mr Gilani said the decision was made after consulting the President, Mr Asif Ali Zardari, to ensure continuity in crucial counter-terrorism operations. He is the second General to get an extension in recent years.