Pakistan Seeks Constitutional Overhaul for Military Command
In a significant move following recent tensions with India, Pakistan has initiated steps to strengthen the constitutional foundation of its military command structure. Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar presented the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill in the Senate on Saturday, proposing crucial revisions to Article 243 of Pakistan's 1973 Constitution.
What Changes Does the Amendment Propose?
The bill aims to formally enshrine the appointments and parallel ranks of the chiefs of the Army, Air Force, and Navy within the constitution. Currently, these procedures are covered under the Army Act but lack constitutional mention. Tarar explicitly cited "lessons" from recent India-Pakistan standoffs as driving this change, emphasizing that modern warfare's evolving nature demands constitutional alignment with changing command dynamics.
This push for modernization comes against the backdrop of Operation Sindoor, launched by India on May 7. The operation targeted terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam attack that killed 26 civilians.
Potential Benefits for Army Chief Asim Munir
The proposed amendment could significantly benefit current Army Chief General Asim Munir in several ways:
- Formal Recognition of Field Marshal: The rank would transition from an honorary title to a constitutionally recognized position.
- Commander of Defence Forces (CDF): A new position with authority over all three armed services could be created, potentially for Munir to assume.
- Shift of Supreme Command: Operational control would move from the president and prime minister to the CDF or Field Marshal.
- Tenure Extension: Revised language could allow for extended or indefinite terms for the Field Marshal.
General Munir has faced widespread criticism for his involvement in Pakistan's civilian politics, particularly regarding the suppression of Imran Khan's PTI party and the use of military courts for civilians involved in the May 9, 2023 riots.
Mounting Criticism and Political Opposition
The proposal has sparked significant criticism from observers and opposition parties who warn it could further consolidate military power over the civilian government. Legal experts remain divided on whether such changes require a constitutional amendment, with many arguing that operational reforms could be implemented through ordinary legislation.
Opposition Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Ali Zafar raised procedural concerns, noting that the opposition received the draft only on Saturday and hadn't had adequate time to review it. He questioned the government's urgency in pushing the bill forward, suggesting broader debate was necessary.
The federal cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif via video link from Azerbaijan, has already given its full approval to the draft amendment, setting the stage for a contentious parliamentary debate.
