Pakistan’s parliament has approved a landmark constitutional amendment that significantly expands the powers of Field Marshal Asim Munir, widely regarded as the nation’s most powerful leader. The bill, passed by the lower house on Wednesday, grants Munir lifelong immunity from prosecution and enhances his authority over all military branches. Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif termed the move a step toward “national unity,” according to the state-run Associated Press of Pakistan. However, critics and observers see it as a decisive moment in the military’s decades-long dominance over the country's political system.
Under Munir’s leadership, Pakistan has actively sought to strengthen its foreign ties, particularly with the United States. Former US President Donald Trump recently described Munir as his “favourite Field Marshal,” a label that drew significant attention in both nations. Islamabad has praised Trump for his role during the India-Pakistan conflict earlier this year, claiming he helped broker a ceasefire between the nuclear-armed rivals—a claim New Delhi firmly denies. Pakistan reportedly plans to nominate Trump for a Nobel Peace Prize, citing his diplomatic contributions.
The sweeping changes come amid heightened regional instability. Deadly explosions in the capitals of India and Pakistan within a span of 24 hours recently left at least 20 dead and dozens injured, heightening security fears across South Asia. Against this volatile backdrop, Munir’s strengthened position represents a turning point in Pakistan’s political history—one that further consolidates the military’s influence while blurring the line between civilian rule and military command.
Munir, who rose to prominence after being elevated to the rare rank of Field Marshal following a brief conflict with India in May, has become a central figure in Pakistan’s power structure. The constitutional amendment, analysts warn, may further entrench military authority, eclipsing civilian leadership. Michael Kugelman, a non-resident senior fellow at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, noted that the legislation “could strengthen the power of the armed forces, which already enjoy more power than during any other period of non-military rule.” His assessment underscores growing concern about the erosion of Pakistan’s democratic institutions.
The newly passed bill also reshapes Pakistan’s judicial landscape. It grants the prime minister the authority to appoint or remove top court judges and introduces provisions to establish a Federal Constitutional Court. Legal experts argue this change could dilute the powers of the existing Supreme Court, further consolidating military and executive influence within the country’s governance framework. Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar defended the amendment, describing it as part of long-term efforts to create “balanced civil-military relations.”