In a significant political development, the ruling coalition in Pakistan is poised to pass the historic 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill through the National Assembly today. The government has secured the required two-thirds majority needed for this crucial constitutional change, setting the stage for major reforms in the country's judicial and military structures.
Key Provisions of the Constitutional Amendment
Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar introduced the constitutional package in the National Assembly, outlining sweeping changes that will transform Pakistan's governance framework. The President shall, on the advice of the Prime Minister, appoint the Chief of the Army Staff concurrently as the Chief of the Defence Forces, marking a significant consolidation of military command structure.
Under the new provisions, the appointments of the Chief of Air Staff and Chief of Naval Staff will also be made on the Prime Minister's advice. In a major structural change, the office of the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee shall stand abolished effective November 27, 2025. The Prime Minister will now appoint the Commander of the National Strategic Command from Pakistan Army members based on recommendations from the Chief of Army Staff.
Judicial Reforms and New Constitutional Court
The amendment establishes a groundbreaking Federal Constitutional Court with its permanent seat in Islamabad. This new judicial body will hear cases related to constitutional matters and interpretation of the Constitution, ensuring specialized attention to fundamental legal questions.
The federating units will receive equal representation in the constitutional court, reflecting the spirit of the Charter of Democracy. The Islamabad High Court will also be represented in the Federal Constitutional Court, creating a more inclusive judicial framework. Additionally, the President may transfer judges between high courts based on recommendations from the Judicial Commission of Pakistan.
Political Dynamics and Security Provisions
The government has strictly instructed all treasury members to remain present in the House during the crucial legislative process. Meanwhile, opposition parties have vowed strong protests and attempts to disrupt proceedings, creating a tense parliamentary atmosphere.
The constitutional package includes significant immunity provisions, stating that no criminal proceedings can be initiated or continued against the President for life, and against governors during their term of office. The amendment also addresses military honors, specifying that officers promoted to the ranks of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, or Admiral of the Fleet will retain their rank, privileges, and uniform for life.
Defence Minister Khwaja Muhammad Asif emphasized the need to strengthen local government systems while supporting the constitutional package. Parliamentary Secretary for Information and Broadcasting Danyal Chaudhary highlighted that the Federal Constitutional Court will ensure speedy dispensation of justice, criticizing the opposition for not taking constitutional matters seriously.
As Pakistan moves toward implementing these comprehensive constitutional changes, the 27th Constitutional Amendment represents one of the most significant governance reforms in recent years, potentially reshaping the country's political and judicial landscape for generations to come.
