The Pakistan Ex-Servicemen Society (PES) has once again urged the federal government to establish a permanent job quota for retired military personnel, arguing that soldiers retire at a relatively young age and deserve fair opportunities in public-sector roles based on merit.
The demand was put forward during the Society’s 64th meeting held on Sunday, chaired by Lieutenant General (Retd.) Abdul Qayyum. Senior members including Admiral (Retd.) Abdul Aleem, Commodore Arshad Khan, Chief Organizer Aziz Ahmed Awan, and representatives from various defence-related departments attended the session.
While discussing welfare-related concerns, the PES praised the defence reforms introduced through the 27th Constitutional Amendment, describing them as a positive step toward modernizing Pakistan’s national security framework.
Participants noted that reforms within the higher defence organization were long overdue, especially in an era shaped by rapid technological and digital advancements. They also welcomed the introduction of the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF) position, saying it would strengthen joint coordination, strategic planning, and operational synergy among the three armed services.
The meeting further supported the formation of a Federal Constitutional Court, stating that such an institution would allow the Supreme Court to focus on core constitutional matters while helping reduce delays in other legal proceedings. The Society emphasized that while Parliament holds the authority to enact constitutional amendments, the separation of powers must be preserved.
On foreign policy, the PES stressed the need for Pakistan to pursue peaceful engagement with Afghanistan through assertive diplomacy and regional cooperation. It also urged the government to present credible evidence on alleged Indian-backed terrorism at international forums.
The Society reiterated that pensions for retired soldiers, sailors, airmen, and families of martyrs must never fall below the national minimum wage. It appreciated the government’s decision to introduce a contributory pension fund aimed at becoming financially sustainable over time.
However, PES members expressed concern over the slow processing of compensation for ex-servicemen affected by recent floods. They called on provincial authorities to expedite the release of pending payments without further delay.
