Pakistan has entered a new era of military influence, with Army Chief Asim Munir taking charge as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) on Thursday. The new post, created through the 27th Amendment to the Pakistani Constitution, places Munir at the head of all three armed services the army, air force, and navy for a fixed five-year term. This move comes without a direct military takeover, giving Munir unprecedented power within the constitutional framework.
27th Amendment Reshapes Pakistan’s Military Structure
The 27th Amendment, passed by the Senate on November 1, abolished the position of Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee (CJCSC), which was the senior-most tri-services role since its creation in 1976 by former Prime Minister Zulfikar Ali Bhutto. With the retirement of General Sahir Shamshad Mirza, the longstanding CJCSC role has ended, making way for Munir’s new powers.
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Under the amendment, the army chief now oversees Pakistan’s nuclear arsenal and exercises control over the tri-services, a role previously held by the president and cabinet. Munir’s tenure has been reset, extending his service until 2030. The amendment also grants him legal immunity similar to the president, protecting him from prosecution, along with the air force and navy chiefs.
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Military Influence in Pakistan’s Politics
Pakistan, a nuclear-armed country with over 240 million people, has a history of oscillating between civilian and military rule. The last direct military ruler, Pervez Musharraf, came to power in a 1999 coup. Since 2008, civilian governments have officially been in charge, but the military retains significant influence over politics and the economy. Analysts say the 27th Amendment further strengthens this influence, reducing government oversight of the armed forces.
The CDF can now recommend appointments for key military positions, including Vice Chief of Army Staff and the head of the National Strategic Command (NSC), which controls nuclear weapons. This change ensures that Munir and the army maintain control over critical military and strategic decisions.
Rise of Asim Munir
Munir became army chief in November 2022, after holding senior positions such as Quartermaster General, Corps Commander Gujranwala, and head of Military Intelligence and the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). In 2019, he was removed as intelligence chief under former Prime Minister Imran Khan, but regained prominence after Khan was ousted by lawmakers.
He was promoted to field marshal in May 2025 following a brief clash with India. Analysts say this promotion, combined with the constitutional changes, makes Munir arguably the most powerful man in Pakistan, rivaling Musharraf’s influence during his rule.
Analysts See Asim Munir As The Most Powerful Man In Pakistan
Defence analyst Naeem Khalid Lodhi said, “Field Marshal Asim Munir has become the most powerful man in Pakistan. Politicians have strengthened him for their short-term interests, risking the country’s long-term stability.” South Asia expert Shuja Nawaz called the amendment a “survival strategy” for politicians, ensuring Munir’s support during future elections.
Munir now has authority to modernize the military, overhaul command structures, and maintain lifelong rank as field marshal, following British tradition. While he has secured some diplomatic recognition, including a private meeting with former US President Donald Trump, analysts warn that Pakistan’s long-term stability depends on economic growth and political stability challenges the country continues to face.