Pakistan’s 27th Amendment: A “Naya Zia Moment”?
Pakistan’s Parliament has passed the contentious 27th constitutional amendment, dramatically expanding the military’s authority and sparking comparisons to General Zia-ul-Haq’s authoritarian rule in the 1980s. The amendment, backed by Army Chief General Asim Munir, grants the military unprecedented control over national security, judiciary, and economic policy. Opposition parties, including PTI and PPP, label it a “constitutional coup” and vow nationwide protests.
Key Changes Under the 27th Amendment
The amendment introduces major shifts in Pakistan’s governance:
- National Security Council (NSC) Gains Supreme Authority
- The NSC, previously advisory, now holds veto power over civilian decisions on security and economic policies.
- Military Courts Expand Jurisdiction
- Cases labeled “anti-state” will bypass civilian courts, raising fears of suppressed dissent.
- Army Chief Leads Economic Decisions
- A new military-led committee will oversee foreign loans, CPEC projects, and fiscal policies.
Proponents claim the changes ensure “stability” amid economic turmoil, but critics warn it erodes democracy.
General Munir’s Rising Power: A Modern-Day Zia?
General Asim Munir’s influence has grown steadily since 2022, with the 27th amendment cementing his de facto control over Pakistan’s governance. Analysts describe it as his taj-e-saltanat (crown of authority), formalizing military dominance.
“Munir isn’t just Army Chief—he’s now the architect of Pakistan’s policy,” says political analyst Ayesha Siddiqa.
Opposition Backlash: Protests and Crackdowns
The opposition, led by Imran Khan’s PTI and PPP, condemns the amendment as undemocratic:
– Nationwide “Awami March” announced for next month.
– 200+ PTI workers arrested in preemptive raids.
– Internet restrictions imposed in major cities.
Zia’s Shadow: History Repeating?
The amendment mirrors Zia-ul-Haq’s 8th Amendment (1985), which enabled presidential overreach. “Zia ruled overtly; Munir is doing it under legal cover,” notes journalist Hamid Mir.
What’s Next for Pakistan?
With protests escalating and global scrutiny mounting, Pakistan faces a critical juncture. Will international pressure alter the military’s stance, or is this truly a new era of hybrid rule?
(Stay updated on Pakistan’s political crisis with NextMinuteNews.)
