New Constitutional Amendment Grants Pakistani Army Chief Lifetime Immunity, Raising Alarms Over Democracy

New Constitutional Amendment Grants Pakistani Army Chief Lifetime Immunity, Raising Alarms Over Democracy
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Pakistan’s parliament has passed a controversial constitutional amendment granting the country’s army chief unprecedented powers and lifetime legal immunity, sparking widespread concern among analysts, legal experts, and political observers, the Shia Waves Agency reported.

Under the new law, the army chief is shielded from prosecution for life and gains broad authority over all branches of the armed forces. Experts warn this effectively concentrates power in the military while limiting the independence of democratic institutions, including the judiciary.

“The amendment signals a clear erosion of democracy and a shift toward authoritarianism,” the New York Times cited analysts as saying, noting that the Supreme Court’s authority could be severely curtailed. Legal expert Salahuddin Ahmed told local media the move could render the Supreme Court largely ceremonial, endorsing any government decision without challenge, and pave the way for unilateral governance.

Supporters, including Pakistan Muslim League-N officials, argue the amendment strengthens the military’s efficiency and enhances the country’s capacity to manage regional security crises.

Critics, however, warn it risks undermining the presidency, prime minister’s office, and parliament, widening the gap between military authorities and civil society. Observers say in a country already grappling with political instability, economic challenges, and regional tensions, the concentration of power in a single military figure poses a serious threat to Pakistan’s democratic future.