Pakistan’s 27th Amendment Sparks UN Criticism Over Military Powers

Pakistan is facing international scrutiny for a new constitutional change. The United Nations has raised serious concerns about the country’s 27th constitutional amendment. This amendment significantly boosts the powers of military leaders, including General Asim Munir.Islamabad firmly rejected the UN’s criticism. The country’s foreign office dismissed the remarks as “ungrounded and misplaced apprehensions.” According to Reuters, the government asserts the amendment is a matter of national sovereignty.

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Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, issued a formal statement. He warned the amendment was rushed without proper consultation. He expressed concern it threatens judicial independence and military accountability.The official cautioned that the changes were “hastily adopted.” This process bypassed broad debate with the legal community and civil society. The move mirrors concerns raised about a previous amendment passed last year.

What the 27th Amendment Changes

The amendment brings a major restructuring of Pakistan’s military leadership. It proposes scrapping the post of Chairman, Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee. This role would be replaced by a new, more powerful Chief of Defence Forces.The legislation also expands military hierarchy privileges. It allows for promotions to the highest ranks, including Field Marshal. This title becomes a lifelong position, granting permanent immunity from prosecution.The bill introduces a new Federal Constitutional Court. It also changes the process for appointing high court judges. Furthermore, it establishes new rules for forming provincial cabinets, centralizing more power.Under the revised system, the President will appoint the army chief and the chief of defence forces. These appointments are made on the advice of the Prime Minister. The army chief will then appoint the head of the national strategic command.Local media reports suggest the amendment was influenced by a brief conflict with India in May. The establishment believes modern warfare requires more integrated command structures. This consolidation aims to streamline military decision-making.Soon after the clash, the government promoted General Asim Munir to Field Marshal. He is only the second officer in Pakistan’s history to hold this rank. In a country with a long history of military influence, this move has alarmed observers.

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The passage of the 27th amendment marks a pivotal moment for Pakistan’s democracy. This constitutional change solidifies military authority within the government’s structure. The international community continues to watch the situation closely.

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What is Pakistan’s 27th amendment?

It is a constitutional change that restructures Pakistan’s military leadership. The amendment creates a powerful Chief of Defence Forces role. It also grants lifelong ranks and legal protections to top officials.

Why is the UN criticizing Pakistan?

The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights says the amendment was adopted too hastily. He believes it threatens judicial independence and reduces military accountability. The process lacked broad consultation with civil society.

What was Pakistan’s response to the UN?

Islamabad firmly rejected the UN’s criticism. The foreign office called the remarks “ungrounded and misplaced apprehensions.” It stated that constitutional amendments are the exclusive domain of elected representatives.

How does this amendment affect General Asim Munir?

General Asim Munir was promoted to Field Marshal, a lifelong title. This rank provides immunity from prosecution. It also places him in a significantly more powerful position within the new command structure.

What other changes does the amendment make?

It proposes a new Federal Constitutional Court. The amendment alters how high court judges are appointed. It also introduces new rules for forming provincial governments.