### Pakistan's 27th Constitutional Amendment: A Shift Towards Military Dominance On November 13, 2025, Pakistan's parliament passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment, a significant legislative change that grants unprecedented powers to the Army Chief, General Asim Munir. This amendment has been described by critics as a "funeral for democracy," as it not only provides lifelong immunity to Munir but also curtails the powers of the Supreme Court, raising alarms about the future of democratic governance in Pakistan. The amendment was approved with a substantial majority, reflecting a consolidation of military influence over civilian governance [https://www.firstpost.com/world/funeral-for-democracy-pakistan-parliament-grants-lifelong-immunity-and-sweeping-powers-to-army-chief-munir-13950166.html][https://www.cnn.com/2025/11/12/asia/pakistan-powers-for-army-chief-intl-hnk]. ### Breakdown of the 27th Amendment's Key Provisions 1. **Expansion of Military Authority**: - The amendment establishes General Asim Munir as the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF), consolidating command over the army, navy, and air force [https://www.republicworld.com/world-news/pakistan-s-army-chief-asim-munir-to-become-chief-of-defence-forces-under-new-constitutional-amendment]. - It grants him control over Pakistan's nuclear arsenal, positioning him as the most powerful military figure in the country [https://www.india.com/news/world/legal-immunity-command-of-tri-forces-how-27th-amendment-makes-army-chief-asim-munir-most-powerful-per]. 2. **Judicial Limitations**: - The amendment limits the jurisdiction of the Supreme Court, effectively reducing its ability to challenge military decisions [https://www.newsbytesapp.com/news/world/pakistan-army-chief-munir-gains-more-powers-immunity-for-life/story]. - A new Federal Constitutional Court has been established, which will operate above the Supreme Court, further diminishing judicial independence [https://www.indiatoday.in/world/video/pakistans-27th-amendment-army-chief-munir-gets-absolute-power-lifelong-immunity-ytvd-2819330-2025-11-13]. 3. **Political Context and Reactions**: - The amendment was passed with a two-thirds majority in the National Assembly, with only four lawmakers opposing it, indicating a lack of significant political resistance [https://www.hindustantimes.com/world-news/pakistan-parliament-approves-more-powers-for-army-chief-curbs-top-court-101762961391685.html]. - Critics, including political analysts, have condemned the move as a step towards military dictatorship, arguing that it undermines the democratic framework established in Pakistan [https://www.theguardian.com/world/2025/nov/12/pakistan-parliament-constitutional-amendment-bill-asim-munir-supreme-court]. ### Implications of the Amendment - **Consolidation of Power**: The amendment effectively places General Munir above both the President and the judiciary, centralizing power within the military and raising concerns about the erosion of democratic institutions [https://www.india.com/news/world/pakistan-passes-27th-constitutional-amendment-asim-munir-to-become-countrys-first-cdf-gains-control-over-nuclear-arsenal-to-lead-army-navy-air-force-services-secure-life-time-honorary-titles-8181009]. - **Public Sentiment**: The passage of this amendment has sparked protests and backlash from opposition parties, who have expressed fears of a return to authoritarian rule [https://www.bhaskarenglish.in/international/news/48-articles-pakistan-constitution-amended-as-sim-munir-command-all-3-armed-forces-opposition-parties-tear-copies-136407275.html]. ### Conclusion: A Pivotal Moment for Pakistan's Democracy The approval of the 27th Constitutional Amendment marks a critical juncture in Pakistan's political landscape, with **General Asim Munir emerging as the most powerful figure in the country**. This shift raises significant concerns about the future of democracy in Pakistan, as the military's influence over civilian governance is solidified. The implications of this amendment will likely resonate throughout the political sphere, challenging the balance of power and the role of judicial oversight in the coming years. 1. **Military Dominance**: The amendment consolidates military power, positioning General Munir as the supreme authority. 2. **Judicial Erosion**: The Supreme Court's powers are curtailed, undermining judicial independence. 3. **Political Backlash**: Opposition parties and critics warn of a potential return to authoritarianism, reflecting widespread public concern. The trajectory of Pakistan's democracy now hangs in the balance as the nation grapples with the consequences of this landmark decision [https://www.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/world/pakistan/pakistan-passes-27th-amendment-army-chief-asim-munir-gains-more-power-to-become-countrys-first-cdf/articleshow/125277851.cms].