ISLAMABAD – President Asif Ali Zardari signed Pakistan Army, Air Force, and Navy (Amendment) Bills, 2025, turnng into lw after their approval. The bills, aligned with the 27th Constitutional Amendment, had already been cleared by the federal cabinet and the National Assembly. The legislation grants expanded powers and authority to the three branches of Pakistan’s armed forces, marking a significant shift in the country’s military and constitutional framework.
27th Constitutional Amendment further empowered Field Marshal Asim Munir including lifetime immunity from prosecution, command over all three branches of the armed forces, and a permanent military rank and uniform.
Under the amendment Asim Munir, Army Chief since November 2022, will now oversee the Navy and Air Force as well. His Field Marshal rank and uniform will remain for life.
Even after retirement, the 5-star general will continue to hold state-assigned responsibilities, determined by the president on the prime minister’s advice.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif said these reforms are necessary to align Pakistan’s defense apparatus with modern warfare requirements. But critics say the real effect is the massive expansion of military authority.
The amendment also delivers a seismic shift in the judicial structure with brand-new Federal Constitutional Court will now decide constitutional matters. The president will appoint its first chief justice and other judges. Before this amendment, the Supreme Court handled constitutional cases.
Analysts believe the amendment marks one of the most consequential transformations in recent times.
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