• Source:JND
Add as a preferred

Pakistan’s President Asif Ali Zardari on Thursda signed the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, swiftly transforming it into law. The amendment, passed by the Senate and National Assembly within just two days, marks one of the most sweeping shifts in Pakistan’s balance of power, granting extraordinary authority to Field Marshal Asim Munir while curbing the independence of the Supreme Court.

The 27th Amendment formally designates General Asim Munir as Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), a new post that gives him overarching control of Pakistan’s Army, Navy, and Air Force. It also extends his tenure to five years, beginning with his new appointment as CDF, even though his current term as Army Chief was due to end in 2026.

The law grants Munir lifelong immunity from prosecution, effectively placing him above all existing laws in Pakistan. He now holds exclusive authority over the country’s strategic assets, including Pakistan’s estimated 170 tactical and strategic nuclear warheads, consolidating military supremacy under a single command.

The amendment also introduces honorary military titles such as Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, and Admiral of the Fleet. These titles can only be revoked or challenged by Parliament, not the judiciary, further limiting checks on the military’s top leadership.

ALSO READ: 'Train Americans, Go Home': Trump's Top Official's Bizarre Stand On New H-1B Visa Policy

Impact On Judiciary And Separation Of Powers

The new law has sparked outrage within Pakistan’s legal and political community. Two senior Supreme Court judges, Justices Mansoor Ali Shah and Athar Minallah, resigned in protest hours after the bill was signed, saying it “undermines the Constitution and compromises judicial independence.”

Under the amendment, a new Federal Constitutional Court will be established to handle constitutional matters, reducing the Supreme Court’s authority over such cases. Legal experts warn this creates a parallel judicial system that dilutes the Supreme Court’s role as the ultimate constitutional arbiter.

Political And Institutional Fallout

Defence Minister Khawaja Asif and Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar defended the amendment, calling it an “alignment of military laws with constitutional needs.” Opposition leaders and civil society activists say it cements Pakistan’s transition into a military-dominated hybrid regime, blurring the line between civilian and military authority.

The rapid passage of the bill reflects Munir’s growing political clout, highlighting the army’s entrenched influence in Pakistan’s governance. With the 27th Amendment now law, Asim Munir stands as the most powerful military leader in Pakistan’s history, shielded from prosecution, commanding all forces, and now beyond the reach of the country’s highest court.

ALSO READ: Who Is UKASA? A Bizarre 'Code Name' Ties To Delhi Blast Main Accused And Turkey | Details Inside

 

Also In News