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Pakistan News: The 27th amendment strengthens the role of the Army Chief beyond traditional military command. General Asim Munir is set to receive the highest strategic authority in Pakistan’s defense structure. Once the National Assembly passes this bill, his influence will extend across decision-making sectors. Rising security challenges have been used as justification for expanding the role. Supporters say the country needs unified leadership in unstable times. Critics argue that power is shifting away from elected representatives. The military is positioned to shape key national directions.
The proposal faced heavy debate due to concerns about democracy. Many fear that military influence will overshadow civilian institutions permanently. Some lawmakers warned that this shift could weaken parliamentary oversight. Supporters defended the change as necessary for national security. The government claims this reform will ensure better coordination in defense matters. Opposition leaders argue the amendment centralizes too much power in one post. The bill’s approval highlights deep political divides in Islamabad.
The amendment required a two-thirds majority in the Senate. The ruling coalition succeeded by gaining support from two opposition members. Senate Chairman Yusuf Raza Gilani chaired the session during the voting process. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar officially presented the bill. Members aligned with the government spoke strongly in favor. The opposition benches showed visible discomfort as the vote progressed. The bill is now headed to the National Assembly for final approval.
The bill proposes creation of a new post called ‘Defence Forces Supreme Commander.’ This role would overshadow current command positions in the military hierarchy. The post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee will end in November 2025. The President will appoint the Army Chief and Defence Forces Head based on the Prime Minister’s advice. This formalizes long-standing informal influence into written constitutional authority. It redefines chain of command at the national level. Military leadership becomes central in policy execution.
The amendment allows the top military chief to hold power for a lifetime if elevated to Field Marshal. This means the role is not bound to regular tenure limits. Critics fear this could lead to permanent military dominance in civilian governance. Supporters say strong continuity ensures stability and strategic consistency. The debate reflects long-standing tensions in Pakistan’s governance structure. The military has historically held strong influence beyond defense matters. This amendment legally secures that influence indefinitely.
The bill now moves to the National Assembly, where the ruling coalition has comfortable numbers. Passing the amendment there appears highly likely. Opposition parties may protest but are unlikely to block the vote. After parliamentary approval, the President will sign it into law. This will officially restructure Pakistan’s military leadership framework. Domestic and international observers are watching the process closely. Reactions may shape Pakistan’s diplomatic and political climate.
The amendment signals a major shift in Pakistan’s power balance. Civilian authority may lose its decision-making autonomy to military leadership. Political analysts warn this could undermine constitutional checks. Supporters argue the move strengthens national unity during crises. However, global democracy watchdogs may raise questions on governance stability. The long-term effect will depend on how the new powers are used. Pakistan now stands at a turning point between elected power and military command.
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