Pakistan army chief to stand down

Pakistan’s army chief, who is often referred to as the country’s most powerful person, says he will retire on November 29, ending speculation that he would try to stay on past the end of his tenure.

General Ashfaq Parvez Kayani made the announcement in a statement issued by the army’s public relations department today.

Gen Kayani took up the position in 2007 and has served for two, three-year terms. There had been speculation about whether Gen Kayani would try to stay on as army chief or seek another position within the military.

In his statement Gen Kayani said his future plans had been debated within the media recently but that his tenure would end on November 29, adding: “On that day I will retire.”