Speculation is mounting in Pakistan that a significant Constitutional amendment, the 27th, is being considered to grant unprecedented powers to Army Chief General Asim Munir. The proposed legislation reportedly aims to redefine the command and control of the armed forces and could formalize the rank of Field Marshal within the constitution. This move is widely interpreted as an effort to extend General Munir’s influence and tenure beyond his scheduled retirement in November.
The core of the proposed changes appears to target Article 243, which outlines the military’s command framework. Political maneuvering is evident, with PPP chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari publicly stating that the government has approached his party for backing on the 27th amendment, signaling efforts to build consensus.
The scope of the potential amendment may extend beyond military affairs to encompass broader institutional restructuring. Reports suggest the establishment of a distinct constitutional court, separate from the existing Supreme Court, and a rebalancing of power between the federal government and the provinces. This could involve transferring key sectors like education and population planning back to federal oversight and altering the distribution of national finances.
Critics, however, have voiced strong objections. They warn that the amendment could compromise the judiciary’s autonomy, centralize constitutional interpretation, and potentially ignite further political unrest. A significant concern is the perceived threat to civilian authority and the democratic principle of civilian supremacy, given Pakistan’s historical context of military influence.
To enact the 27th Amendment, the government must achieve a two-thirds majority in both legislative chambers. While the ruling coalition commands a substantial majority in the National Assembly, the Senate presents a more challenging hurdle, necessitating support from opposition parties to meet the constitutional requirement.