RAWALPINDI: President of the National Defence University and former chief of the country's premier intelligence agency, Lieutenant General Rizwan Akhtar, has requested early retirement from the Pakistan Army.
Lt Gen Akhtar has made the request “due to some pressing personal commitments" and also pleaded "those who know him to avoid speculation in any domain".
The former director general of the Inter Services Intelligence (ISI) was due to retire in October next year but the three-star general has got "early release" after serving around 35 years in the armed forces.
His resignation letter is as follows:
"Dear All
It's with a heavy heart but with great satisfaction, that I hang my uniform on 9th October 2017 after close to 35 years of dedicated active commissioned service. It has been a matter of great pride and honour for me to have served this Great Army.
I would like to place on record, my sincere gratitude and appreciation for all my Seniors, comrades and staff including my family to have provided required guidance and support through my journey in the Army. I have many people to thank for the support provided to become what I am today.
I have requested for premature release due to some pressing personal commitments and want everyone knowing me, to respect my decision and not succumb or resort to speculation in any domain. I shall be available for any service in the Army whenever needed.
Khuda Hafiz"