Political tension is mounting in Pakistan amid reports that the government is considering a constitutional amendment that could expand the authority or extend the tenure of Army Chief General Asim Munir, in what analysts say could further tilt the balance of power toward the military.
The speculation follows a series of closed-door meetings between senior government officials and top military brass in Islamabad, fueling debate over whether the ruling coalition is preparing to institutionalize the army’s dominant role in national governance.
While the government has not publicly confirmed any proposed changes, opposition parties and civil society groups have expressed alarm at what they describe as an attempt to erode civilian supremacy.
“If this amendment passes, it will formalize the military’s control over civilian affairs,” said Dr. Farhat Ali, a political science professor at Lahore University. “Pakistan’s democracy will be more fragile than ever.”
The reported amendment could give the army chief additional oversight over national security, internal stability, and strategic economic projects, effectively expanding the scope of the military’s constitutional influence.
General Munir, who assumed command in November 2022, has emerged as one of Pakistan’s most powerful figures amid ongoing political instability, economic crisis, and tensions with former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s supporters. His tenure has been marked by a strong crackdown on dissent and a closer alignment between the army and the current civilian government.
“The military has long been Pakistan’s most stable institution, but formalizing its supremacy through constitutional means would be unprecedented,” said Hamid Raza, a senior analyst with the Islamabad Policy Forum.
The government has yet to comment on the growing buzz, but opposition leaders from the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) and Jamaat-e-Islami have warned of nationwide protests if any amendment appears to entrench military dominance.
Observers say the coming weeks will be critical as the political and military establishment navigate one of the most consequential power tests in Pakistan’s recent history.
