The proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment in Pakistan has sparked intense debate, with critics warning that it could permanently shift the balance of power toward the military.
According to reports, the amendment introduces major changes to Article 243, potentially giving the Army Chief authority over all three armed forces—Army, Navy, and Air Force. The plan also grants Field Marshal officers lifetime rank, uniform, and privileges, making their removal extremely difficult, requiring a two-thirds majority in both the National Assembly and Senate.
Legal experts have highlighted that the amendment would shield these positions from judicial scrutiny, preventing any court from challenging the authority of top military officers. Critics describe this as a “constitutional coup in slow motion”, arguing it replaces traditional checks and balances with lifelong immunity.
The proposed changes extend beyond the military. The amendment would weaken judicial independence by granting the federal government power to transfer judges between provinces and restructure judicial appointments. Additionally, a new Federal Constitutional Court would be created to handle constitutional and fundamental rights cases, effectively reducing the Supreme Court’s authority.
Political analysts warn that these reforms could merge the military and the state into a single, unaccountable entity, undermining democracy and the rule of law. Many say the amendment represents a regression rather than reform, potentially reshaping Pakistan’s power structure for decades to come.
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