The federal government has drafted the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill, proposing major changes in Pakistan’s military command structure and judicial system.
The amendment aims to replace the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC) with a new designation — Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). This change would redefine the command hierarchy of the armed forces, centralising leadership under a single position.
The cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, has already approved the proposed amendment. Federal Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar confirmed that the draft bill has been finalised and will soon be presented before Parliament for deliberation.
New Military Command Role Proposed
According to the draft, Article 243 of the Constitution — which governs control of the armed forces — will be amended. The federal government will continue to exercise overall command and control, while the President will retain the title of Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
However, the Chief of Defence Forces will now serve as the principal military leader overseeing all branches of the armed services. The amendment also proposes granting Field Marshals and other senior military officials lifetime status for their ranks, formalising their position even after retirement.
These proposed modifications are being seen as an attempt to streamline the military chain of command and clarify constitutional responsibilities related to defence leadership.
Judicial Reforms and New Constitutional Court
In addition to military reforms, the 27th Amendment introduces sweeping judicial changes aimed at restructuring the superior judiciary.
The amendment proposes the creation of a Federal Constitutional Court (FCC), which would take over specific constitutional functions currently held by the Supreme Court. This court would ensure equal representation from all provinces, thereby promoting a balanced federation-based judicial system.
The Chief Justice of the Federal Constitutional Court would serve a three-year term, ensuring periodic rotation of leadership and avoiding extended tenures in the top judicial role.
Central Role for President, Prime Minister, and Parliament
The draft also gives the President and Prime Minister a central role in judicial appointments, reducing unilateral control previously held by the judiciary.
Moreover, Parliament would gain the power to determine the number of judges serving in the Federal Constitutional Court. This move is intended to enhance legislative oversight and accountability within the judicial system.
The proposed reforms mark a significant shift in how constitutional authority is distributed among Pakistan’s key institutions — the executive, legislature, and judiciary.
Balancing Power Across State Institutions
Supporters of the amendment view it as an effort to achieve institutional balance and efficiency, while critics warn that it could dilute judicial independence and centralize power within the executive branch.
If enacted, the 27th Constitutional Amendment would represent one of the most far-reaching changes in Pakistan’s recent constitutional history — reshaping both the command of the armed forces and the structure of the judiciary.
