The Parliament of Pakistan has approved a new constitutional amendment that grants significant powers to Field Marshal Asim Munir, the army chief, including lifetime immunity from arrest and prosecution. This amendment alters the functioning of the judiciary and creates new administrative structures within the military. Supporters argue that these changes provide clarity and improve the efficiency of the armed forces and judicial processes.
The 27th constitutional amendment, signed into law recently, means that Munir, who has served as army chief since November 2022, will now also have oversight of the navy and air force. His title as field marshal and associated privileges will last for life, and he may receive further roles as determined by the president with input from the prime minister, effectively entrenching his influence in public affairs.
Critics, however, view this shift as detrimental to civilian governance and suspect a move towards autocracy. The amendment comes amid a historical context where Pakistan has experienced fluctuating power dynamics between civilian authorities and military leaders. Analysts have expressed concern that the amendment signifies a weakening of civilian oversight in favor of military dominance, with some suggesting it indicates a transition from a hybrid political system to a more overtly militarized governance structure.
Furthermore, the amendment introduces the establishment of a Federal Constitutional Court, which will answer constitutional queries while reshaping judicial authority. The president will appoint its chief justice and judges, raising concerns about judicial independence. Resignations from two Supreme Court justices following the amendment have also raised alarms regarding the balance of power in the judiciary, prompting debates about the government’s increasing influence over judicial processes and fairness in trials.
As these developments unfold, questions remain about the implications for civil liberties and the judiciary’s ability to function independently in Pakistan.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c9d6w1glz3qo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss