Pakistan’s government is reportedly exploring a significant Constitutional amendment, dubbed the 27th Amendment, which could significantly enhance the authority of Army Chief General Asim Munir. The proposed changes are said to focus on revising the framework for armed forces command and potentially establishing the Field Marshal rank constitutionally. This strategic move is seen as a way to ensure General Munir’s continued influence and an extended term beyond his November retirement.
Key areas for revision include Article 243, which defines the military’s leadership structure. The political groundwork for this amendment appears to be laid, with Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) leader Bilawal Bhutto Zardari confirming that the government has sought his party’s endorsement for the 27th amendment.
Further discussions around the amendment reportedly involve substantial institutional reforms. These could include the creation of a new constitutional court, operating independently of the Supreme Court, and a redistribution of powers between the federal government and provincial administrations. Such reforms might entail bringing back federal control over areas like education and population planning and potentially modifying the National Finance Commission (NFC) award system.
This proposed amendment has drawn sharp criticism from various quarters. Concerns have been raised about the potential erosion of judicial independence and the concentration of power within the executive branch. Moreover, critics fear the amendment could fuel political instability and undermine the long-standing principle of civilian supremacy in a country with a history of military intervention.
Passing the 27th Amendment requires a supermajority – a two-thirds vote in both the National Assembly and the Senate. While the government enjoys a comfortable majority in the National Assembly, securing the required numbers in the Senate, where opposition support is essential, will be a significant challenge.