ISLAMABAD: Leader of Opposition in the National Assembly Syed Khurshid Shah has welcomed Army Chief Gen Ashfaq Parvez Kayani’s decision to retire by the end of next month.

In a statement issued here on Sunday, he said the decision would set a good example for military leaders.

He said: “Gen Kayani’s decision not to stay on as army chief any longer would go a long way in establishing a remarkable example in armed forces institutions.

Mr Shah said that after the landmark democratic transition of power, it was another meritorious step to set good values and strengthen the institutions in the country.

“This has not only brought the speculations to an end on the matter of extension, but also made it easy for decision-makers to take a right step as per laid down criteria and that is none other than preferring merit,” he said.

Mr Shah praised Gen Kayani’s services both for the country and democracy at a very critical juncture. “His measures to distance military from politics and play his role remaining within the dictates of constitution are very laudable,” he added.

“Gen Kayani’s honesty of purpose reflects in his statement and we hope that the coming chief of army staff will follow the steps Gen Kiani has taken to safeguard the country and strengthen the democratic institutions in Pakistan because the future of the country is in respecting the will of the people and that is democracy,” the opposition leader said.