27th Constitution Amendment proposes lifetime ranks and privileges for Pakistan’s top military officers

A major constitutional proposal is under discussion in Islamabad, as the draft 27th Amendment to the Constitution of Pakistan 1973 aims to reshape the country’s senior military leadership structure. If approved, the amendment would grant lifetime rank and privileges to officers promoted as Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, or Admiral of the Fleet.

The amendment proposes revisions to Article 243, allowing the President to appoint the Chief of the Army Staff, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Chief of the Air Staff on the advice of the Prime Minister. The President would also determine their salaries and allowances under the updated framework.

One of the most significant elements of the proposal is the abolition of the office of the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee, effective November 27, 2025. This change would shift responsibilities and place greater authority within the office of the Army Chief, who would also serve as the Chief of the Defense Forces under the new structure.

The draft amendment further outlines the appointment mechanism for the Commander of the National Strategic Command. Under the proposal, this position must be filled from within the Pakistan Army, based on the recommendation of the Chief of the Army Staff.

The most debated clause concerns lifetime rank. Under the amendment, any officer elevated to the rank of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, or Admiral of the Fleet would retain their rank permanently, remain in uniform for life, and enjoy continued privileges. Removal would only be possible under Article 47, the same constitutional procedure used for removing a President.

The proposal also states that the privileges, allowances, and post-command duties of such officers would be finalized by the President based on advice from the Prime Minister. Additionally, officers holding lifetime ranks would receive legal protections similar to those granted to the President under Article 248, shielding them while in office.

Legal analysts and political commentators are divided over the implications. Supporters argue that the amendment provides stability and long-term continuity at the highest levels of defense leadership. Critics, however, warn that granting lifetime tenure to top military officers could raise governance concerns and alter the balance of power within the national security structure.