Retirement of four star generals

As Raheel Sharif is all set to pass on baton of command to next army chief on Tuesday after completing three years in office, BBC Urdu sheds light on  perks and privileges a four star general may be entitled to after his retirement.

According to the BBC, the former army chief and the chairman joints chiefs of staff committee, both four star generals, are entitled to all the perks and privileges  that other senior  government functionaries receive after retirement from their respective departments.

The report said generally the retired army chiefs in Pakistan stay away from media and Gen Raheel Sharif too will have to follow the rule that bars retired army chiefs from media interviews and public speeches for two years after their retirement.

Three former or serving army men serve retired four star generals as operator, driver and personal assistant.  

Amjad Shoaib, a retired Lt General, says not all the retired army chiefs are provided security for a lifetime. He however, said SSG Commandos, protect the retired generals until a security clearance from intelligence agencies is received.

Like all the senior military and civil officials, a four star generals is also allotted a plot where he  can build his house.

Raheel Sharif, however, has already donated his plot for a fund allocated for martyrs of the army, according to the BBC.

After their retirement, army chief and chairman joint chiefs of staff committee are issued officials passports for travelling, a facility that is also availed to prime ministers and other top government functionaries, the BBC report said.