Pakistan’s Senate Approves Sweeping Reforms to Expand Army Chief’s Powers and Curb Supreme Court

ISLAMABAD – In a move that critics are calling a fundamental shift in Pakistan’s constitutional order, the Senate has passed a sweeping set of amendments that would grant the Army Chief unprecedented authority and curtail the power of the Supreme Court, potentially cementing the military’s dominance over the country’s fragile democratic institutions.

The bill, passed on Tuesday with strong backing from the ruling coalition, now moves to the National Assembly for final approval. If enacted, it would represent one of the most consequential political overhauls in Pakistan’s history, formally restructuring the balance of power between the military, judiciary, and civilian government.

The Core Reforms: A New Power Structure

The proposed constitutional amendments introduce two seismic changes:

1. Creation of a “Chief of Defence Forces”: The most significant change elevates the current Army Chief, General Asim Munir, to the newly created position of “Chief of Defence Forces” (CDF). This role would place him in formal command of all three branches of the armed services—the army, navy, and air force—a level of consolidated military authority never before held by a single officer in Pakistan’s history. The bill also grants the serving and former CDFs lifetime legal immunity from prosecution for any actions taken in office.

2. Establishment of a “Federal Constitutional Court”: The legislation strips the Supreme Court of its jurisdiction over constitutional petitions, a key tool it has used to challenge government overreach. This power would be transferred to a new “Federal Constitutional Court,” whose judges would be appointed directly by the federal government, bypassing the existing judicial commission that includes senior judges. Legal experts argue this politicizes judicial appointments and severely undermines the judiciary’s independence.

Political Context and Backing

The bill’s rapid progress through the Senate, where the ruling coalition holds a majority, signals strong institutional backing. Analysts suggest the reforms are the culmination of years of friction between the military establishment and the judiciary, particularly under former Chief Justice Gulzar Ahmed, whose court was seen as occasionally pushing back against military influence.

The government has framed the reforms as a necessary measure to “ensure stability and streamline national security command.” A government spokesperson stated, “A unified military command is essential for confronting the complex security challenges facing Pakistan.”

A Deepening Civil-Military Imbalance

Opposition lawmakers, civil society groups, and prominent legal bodies have condemned the legislation as a de facto constitutional coup.

“These amendments do not reform the constitution; they dismember it,” said Senator Syed Ali Zafar of the opposition PTI party. “We are witnessing the legalization of a military veto over the state’s affairs. The message is clear: the army chief will be beyond accountability, and the court that could hold him accountable will be neutered.”

Pakistan has been ruled by the military for nearly half of its existence since 1947. Even during civilian governments, the army has wielded immense behind-the-scenes influence over foreign and security policy. Critics argue this bill would make that influence explicit and unassailable, effectively ending the pretense of civilian supremacy.

The International Dimension and General Munir’s Profile

The reforms would further empower General Asim Munir, a figure with significant international stature. The article’s reference to U.S. President Donald Trump calling Munir his “favorite field marshal” (a title Munir does not officially hold) underscores the general’s perceived influence. Consolidating power under a single, immune commander could complicate Pakistan’s foreign relations, particularly with Western allies who have long expressed concern about the country’s democratic deficits.

What Happens Next?

All eyes are now on the National Assembly, where the ruling coalition also commands a majority. While the bill is expected to pass, the intensity of the debate and any potential concessions will be closely watched. Political analysts warn that its enactment could trigger a fresh wave of political instability.

“If this becomes law, it will mark the point where Pakistan’s democratic project was legally subordinated to its military institution,” said Ayesha Siddiqa, a prominent military analyst. “At a time of profound economic crisis and political fragmentation, this risks plunging the country into a deeper legitimacy crisis from which it may not easily recover.”

The nation now waits to see if its parliament will formally endorse a new era of military-led governance.

  Donate Here