ISLAMABAD – The National Assembly of Pakistan has approved significant amendments to three key military laws, including the Pakistan Army Act of 1952, the Pakistan Air Force Act of 1953, and the Pakistan Navy Ordinance of 1961.
The amendments, passed with a majority vote, pave the way for the appointment of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) for a five-year term, a move that strengthens the leadership structure of Pakistan’s armed forces.
The bills were presented in the National Assembly by Defence Minister Khawaja Asif, who urged members to approve the revisions. Following a vote, the assembly granted approval for the amendments.
Tenure of Chief of Defence Forces
The approved amendments stipulate that the Army Chief will also serve as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) for the next five years. The term of the Chief of Defence Forces will begin on the date the notification is issued.
In the event that the army chief is promoted to the rank of Field Marshal, the services rendered under this position will be governed by a specified subsection.
The federal government will have the authority to determine the responsibilities and duties of the army chief in the new role. Notably, the amendments also call for the termination of the position of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee on November 27, 2025.
Under the new framework, the prime minister will appoint the Commander of the National Strategic Command for a three-year term, based on the recommendation of the army chief and the Chief of Defence Forces. The premier will also have the authority to reappoint or extend the Commander’s term for another three years. Importantly, these decisions will not be subject to challenge in any court.
The amendments further specify that the Commander of the National Strategic Command will continue to serve as a General in the Pakistan Army, and the regulations for retirement age, service tenure, or dismissal will not apply to this role.
However, it was emphasized that no new appointments for positions such as Vice Chief of Army Staff or Deputy Army Chief are being made under these amendments.
