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Pakistan Formally Grants Unprecedented Power to Military in Landmark Constitutional Amendment

Islamabad, Pakistan – November 16, 2025 – A controversial constitutional amendment has solidified the Pakistan military’s already considerable power, sparking concerns about the future of democracy in the country. The 27th Amendment, passed on November 13th and signed into law by President Asif Ali Zardari, creates the new position of Chief of Defence Forces, effectively placing the armed forces under the direct control of a single individual, currently Field Marshal Asim Munir.

The move abolishes the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee and grants the Chief of Defence Forces authority over the Army, Navy, and Air Force. Crucially, the amendment also bestows lifetime immunity from criminal prosecution upon any officer promoted to a five-star rank, a designation currently held only by Gen. Munir, as well as the President.

Furthermore, the amendment establishes a new Constitutional Court, curtailing the Supreme Court’s power to interpret the constitution. Judges of this court will be appointed by the President on the Prime Minister’s advice, both considered allies of the military. This judicial overhaul has already triggered resignations from Supreme Court Justices.

The amendment was passed with significant support in the Senate and National Assembly, though lawmakers from Imran Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) boycotted the vote, denouncing it as an attack on Pakistan’s constitutional structure. Khan, currently imprisoned on corruption charges, and his party have long accused the military of manipulating Pakistani politics.

Critics argue the amendment formalizes what has been an increasingly apparent “hybrid rule,” where civilian leaders share power with the military. With Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government facing challenges and Imran Khan’s supporters opposing the regime from the streets, Gen. Munir has steadily consolidated his authority.
This move comes after Gen. Munir was elevated to Field Marshal following a brief air conflict with India earlier this year.

The amendment marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s political landscape. The long-term implications for the country’s democratic institutions remain to be seen.

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