Pakistan amends constitution, Asim Munir gets key role
What's the story
Pakistan has introduced a constitutional amendment to establish a new position of chief of defense forces for better coordination among its military services. The 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, which was tabled in parliament on Saturday, seeks to amend Article 243 of the Constitution. The amendment allows the President to appoint both the Army Chief and the Chief of Defense Forces on the Prime Minister's advice.
Promotion provisions
Amendment allows for promotions to Field Marshal
The amendment bill also allows for promotions to Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, and Admiral of the Fleet. The rank and privileges of Field Marshal will be for life. It also states that the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee's position will cease on November 27, 2025. The Chief of Army Staff will appoint the head of the National Strategic Command in consultation with the Prime Minister.
Historical context
Amendment inspired by lessons from May India-Pakistan conflict
The amendment is reportedly inspired by lessons from the four-day conflict between Pakistan and India in May. The conflict was triggered by India's "Operation Sindoor," launched on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan-controlled territories. Air Chief Marshal A P Singh said at least a dozen Pakistani military aircraft were destroyed or damaged during the strikes.
Military promotion
Pakistan government promoted Army Chief Munir to Field Marshal
After the conflict, the Pakistan government promoted Army Chief General Asim Munir to Field Marshal. The amendment bill also proposes establishing a Federal Constitutional Court and changing high court judge appointment processes. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the bill in the Senate after it was approved by the cabinet. Senate Chairman Yousuf Raza Gillani referred it to the Standing Committees on Law and Justice for review.
Opposition response
Opposition leader questions timing of constitutional amendment debate
Opposition leader Ali Zafar questioned the timing of the debate on the constitutional amendment. He suggested treating the entire Senate as a committee for discussion since they had just received the draft. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif chaired a cabinet meeting via video link from Azerbaijan before introducing the bill in parliament. The federal cabinet approved and welcomed it wholeheartedly, state-run PTV News reported.