It was an uphill task to command the Army in post 9/11 scenario, the turbulent operational environment on western front tested his nerves. A determined and resolute commander, Kiyani never paid heed to NATO commanders, they made every effort to pressurize him to open a front in North Waziristan against Haqqani network but in national interest he never said yes.

After Salala incident, it was a nerve testing stage but he remained nonchalant and NATO supply route was closed, although it was opened after 7 months but closing it was a brave step.

In 3rd November emergency, General Kiyani was not among those who advised Musharraf but that was political leadership who did. I don't think he has any role in that emergency.

Abbotabad incident was a question mark on his career and a matter of pivotal importance but he took the responsibility and said that he is there to accept any inquiry.

The best thing which marks the success of a Military commander is his reputation among junior ranks and how much the commander can motivate the common soldiers. General Kiyani was termed as سپاھیوں کا سپاھی He always remained on front with soldiers in testing moments like Salala incident, post Mumbai attacks and happy moments like Eid. He always motivated his soldiers and inculcate in them a messianic zeal.

These are some superficial matters but the things that a military commander has to face off the stage can never be intelligible to a common man. The pressures and challenges he face remain hidden from our eyes but certainly his role in tackling such situations is also appreciable.

These are some matters of great importance that took place in his career as a COAS but attacks such as GHQ attack, PNS mehran and PAF Kamra attack are mere terrorist attacks and army leadership has got nothing to do with these attacks.

The best thing is that he established a precedent to support a democratic government and made possible the first democratic transition in this country. So overall his career has been very successful. He was a man of great acumen, sagacity and foresight and his placid and nonchalant composure is yet another mark of his personality as a military commander.

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Ever has it been that love knows not its own depth until the hour of separation.
But when love is one sided, holding off is no more an option.