Pakistan’s political system has entered a new phase after parliament passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment, a move that gives significant authority to the country’s army chief, General Asim Munir. The amendment has raised concerns both within Pakistan and internationally because it centralizes military power and limits civilian oversight.
The new law formally introduces the post of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), allowing General Munir to hold dual authority over the army, air force, and navy. He now has full control over national defense and security matters, and the amendment also legalizes his field marshal rank. In addition, he has been granted lifelong legal immunity, protecting him from prosecution or removal by any court.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif defended the changes, saying, “This isn’t just about the army chief, it’s constitutional recognition for the air force and navy too. Nations honor their heroes. We know how to respect ours.” 
A major consequence of the amendment is the shift of control over Pakistan’s Strategic Plans Division, which manages nuclear weapons and delivery systems. Around 170 nuclear warheads are now under the office of the army chief. Security experts warn that this concentration of power weakens internal checks and raises concerns about nuclear command safety.
The law also ends the office of the chairman of the joint chiefs of staff committee, a position created decades ago to ensure coordination among the military services. Agencies including ISI, ISPR, Pakistan Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps, Frontier Works Organization, National Defence University, Cyber Command, and the Strategic Plans Division now report directly to the military. Plans for a new CDF Secretariat in Islamabad are expected to centralize operations further.
General Munir’s ideological positions, his references to the 1947 Partition, and meetings with global leaders, including former US President Donald Trump, are seen as increasing his personal influence over both domestic and strategic matters. Observers warn that Pakistan is transitioning from a hybrid democracy to a more institutionalized authoritarian system, where civilian governance is sidelined and media operations are closely monitored.
