Pakistan Parliament Grants Field Marshal Asim Munir Lifelong Immunity

The parliament of Pakistan passed the 27th Constitutional Amendment in November 2025, creating the position of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and appointing Asim Munir to the role. The amendment grants Munir command over the navy and air forces in addition to the army, as well as control over the national nuclear arsenal. These reforms extend his term in office from 2027 to 2030 and provide him with lifelong immunity from prosecution.

This consolidation of power follows a surge in military popularity after a conflict with India in May 2025 and escalating clashes with Afghanistan. Defence Minister Khawaja Asif characterized the resulting governance as a hybrid model based on consensus. However, the Human Rights Commission of Pakistan argued that the changes dismantle essential checks and balances at a time when public trust in state institutions is fragile.

Critics view the legal shift as a transition toward direct military rule. The military is accused of manipulating elections and orchestrating a crackdown on the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf party. This includes the ongoing imprisonment of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, whose supporters claim the military has manipulated the judiciary to suppress his political popularity.