ISLAMABAD: In an apparent reaction to a former Army spokesperson’s remarks, regarding Gen (retd) Ashfaq Parvez Kayani’s reluctance in launching a military offensive in North Waziristan in 2010, Federal Interior Minister Chaudhry Nisar Ali Khan on Wednesday reprimanded the retired officials to be careful in issuing statements, DawnNews reported.

In an interview to BBC Urdu on Monday, former DG Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Maj Gen (retd) Athar Abbas had said that the military leadership of the country was in favour of launching the offensive in 2010, however, it could not due to the indecision of Gen Kayani.

In a statement issued here today, Chaudhry Nisar advised those who have been a part of important national decisions to be ‘reticent.’

“Being tactful and strategic is better for the nation and the country,” he added.

Also read: Kayani feared religious right’s backlash against him: Athar Abbas

Terming ‘confidentiality’ as essential for the development of the nation, the minister cautioned former military officials saying in this media age, a ‘little slip of tongue’ can cause havoc.

Chaudhry Nisar emphasised that unity was vital for Pakistan at this critical juncture. He also cautioned the media to avoid making the issue a point of contention.

Meanwhile, Maj Gen (retd) Athar Abbas said that his statement regarding the military operation was given in response to a question.

Speaking at a seminar organised by South Asian Free Media Association (Safma), he said that a huge number of militant casualties should not be expected out of the Zarb-i-Azb operation. He expressed optimism that all big cities of the country would be ‘cleared’ in a month.