Pakistan's government has introduced a significant constitutional change with the proposed 27th Amendment Bill, which is set to be voted on in Parliament next week. This amendment aims to restructure the military's command and reform the judiciary, leading to widespread debate and protests across the nation. The bill, which was tabled in the Senate after cabinet approval, seeks to abolish the position of chairman joint chiefs of staff committee and replace it with a new role called Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). This change would empower General Asim Munir, the current Army Chief, making him the most powerful military officer in Pakistan's history.

The amendment also plans to establish a Federal Constitutional Court (FCC) that would take over key judicial functions from the Supreme Court, which critics argue could diminish the court's authority. Legal experts are divided on the implications of the amendment. Some warn it could tighten executive control over the judiciary, while others see it as a necessary reform to modernise Pakistan's legal system.

Opposition parties have strongly condemned the amendment, viewing it as a threat to Pakistan's Constitution. A coalition of opposition groups, including Imran Khan's PTI, has announced nationwide protests starting Sunday. They argue that the amendment undermines democratic institutions and consolidates military power. MWM chief Allama Raja Nasir Abbas stated, "Democratic institutions have been paralysed within Pakistan… the nation must step up against the [proposed] 27th Amendment."

The proposed changes also include provisions for lifetime ranks for military officers, which has raised concerns about the balance of power between the civilian government and the military. Critics fear that this amendment could lead to a further erosion of democratic governance in Pakistan, a country with a history of military influence in politics.

As the government prepares for the vote, the political landscape remains tense, with many observers questioning the implications of this amendment for Pakistan's future. The Sharif government faces scrutiny over its reliance on military support, and analysts warn that the centralisation of military authority could lead to increased political friction. The outcome of the vote and the subsequent public response will be closely watched as Pakistan navigates this critical juncture in its political history.