Pakistan’s parliament, Majlis-e-Shoora has approved a constitutional amendment granting Army Chief Field Marshal Asim Munir lifelong immunity from arrest and prosecution — a move critics say pushes the country further towards autocratic rule.
According to a BBC report, lawmakers on Thursday passed the 27th amendment to the constitution, shielding Asim Munir from all forms of judicial proceedings. With this parliamentary endorsement, the Supreme Court will also face limits on its ability to review or overturn the provision.
Under the amendment, Munir, who has served as army chief since November 2022, will now oversee the navy and air force as well. His title of field marshal and military uniform will remain in force for life. Even after formal retirement, he will continue to carry out “duties and responsibilities” determined jointly by the president and prime minister.
In practice, this grants him an enduring role in Pakistan’s political, military and civic landscape.
Supporters of the amendment argue that the reforms bring clarity to the command structure of the armed forces and will help reduce long-pending litigation involving military institutions.
Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, quoted by the state news agency APP, described the changes as part of a broader defence reform plan, saying global instability demanded stronger military preparedness.
Opponents, however, say the amendment effectively permits the army chief to act without legal consequence.
