Pakistan’s parliament has approved a constitutional amendment that significantly expands the powers of the country’s military establishment while curbing the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court. The move grants Army Chief General Asim Munir lifetime legal immunity and elevates him to the newly created position of Chief of Defence Forces, effectively placing him in command of the army, navy, and air force.
Parliament passes constitutional amendment
The amendment bill, passed late on Wednesday, marks one of the most consequential shifts in Pakistan’s civil-military power structure in recent decades. Backed by the ruling coalition, the legislation was swiftly approved despite strong objections from opposition lawmakers and rights groups, who warned that it would further undermine democratic checks and balances.
Under the new law, the position of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) has been established to consolidate military command. General Asim Munir, who has served as the Chief of Army Staff since November 2022, will be the first to assume this expanded role.
The CDF will have overarching authority over all branches of the armed forces, formalising a command structure that critics say places unprecedented control in the hands of one individual.
Lifetime legal immunity for Asim Munir
In addition to his new role, General Munir will retain his rank and enjoy lifetime legal immunity upon retirement — a privilege that shields him from prosecution under Pakistani law. The government has defended the decision as a measure to “preserve national stability” and “ensure continuity of defence leadership.”
However, opposition leaders and legal experts have denounced the move, calling it “a dangerous precedent” that places military figures beyond accountability.
“This amendment effectively legalises military supremacy,” said an Islamabad-based constitutional lawyer. “It diminishes civilian oversight and neutralises the judiciary’s ability to hold top officials accountable.”
Concerns over democratic erosion
The constitutional changes have reignited debates over Pakistan’s long-standing civil-military imbalance. Since its formation in 1947, Pakistan has experienced several military coups, and the army continues to wield enormous influence in political and administrative matters.
Observers note that the timing of the amendment — amid economic hardship and political uncertainty — could weaken democratic institutions further.
“The parliament has surrendered its authority instead of strengthening civilian governance,” said a senior opposition MP during the heated debate. “This is not reform; it is regression.”
Impact on judiciary and governance
The amendment also introduces clauses limiting the Supreme Court’s powers to review military appointments or decisions taken under national security grounds. Analysts believe this will further reduce judicial independence in a country where courts have often clashed with the military establishment.
The government, however, insists the changes are necessary to “streamline national security decision-making” and prevent “political interference” in defence matters.
Political commentators argue that these changes reflect the growing centralisation of authority under Munir’s leadership, following months of tension between the military and the judiciary.
Regional and international implications
Pakistan’s move to consolidate military power is expected to attract close scrutiny from international observers. Neighbouring India and global partners, including the United States and China, will be watching closely as Islamabad redefines its military hierarchy.
Experts suggest that Munir’s new role could lead to more direct coordination between defence branches, especially in the context of Pakistan’s internal security challenges and cross-border tensions.
However, critics warn that sidelining civilian oversight may deepen the country’s governance crisis and discourage international investment, particularly from democratic allies.
Conclusion
The creation of the Chief of Defence Forces position and the granting of lifetime immunity to Asim Munir represent a pivotal shift in Pakistan’s political landscape. While the government claims it is a step toward stability, critics view it as a clear setback for democracy and judicial independence.
As Munir formally assumes his new position, Pakistan faces the delicate task of balancing national security interests with the principles of democratic accountability — a challenge that has defined much of its modern history.