THIS refers to the analysis ‘New COAS: critical decision coming up for PM’ (July 21). The principle of seniority is the only accepted norm in the leading armies of the world. The same principle was followed for the appointment of the Pakistan naval and air chiefs.

This should also be the guiding principle for Prime Minister Nawaz Sharif to follow. As regards merit, it actually stems from seniority, and screens out those who are from non-combatant services or their requisite boxes are not ticked.

In case of the Pakistan Army, the command of a corps is an essential prequalification with an assignment as Principal Staff Officer in GHQ as an added qualification.

Thus the selection of the next Chief of the Army Staff is not a complicated one. It is simple -– follow the seniority and merit.

SHAYAN RAJA Islamabad