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Pakistan’s 27th Amendment Sparks UN Criticism and Government Defense

Source: Pakistan’s 27th amendment boosting Gen Asim Munir’s powers faces UN scrutiny; Islamabad responds | World News (2025-11-30)

In a recent development, Pakistan’s controversial 27th constitutional amendment, which enhances the powers of Army Chief General Asim Munir and grants immunity to top military officials, has come under sharp scrutiny from the United Nations. The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, expressed concern that the amendment was hastily adopted and could undermine judicial independence and accountability. Pakistan’s government, led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, responded firmly, dismissing the UN’s criticism as “ungrounded,” and emphasizing the amendment’s importance for national security and stability. This political move marks a significant shift in Pakistan’s constitutional landscape, raising questions about civilian-military relations and the rule of law in the country. Since its adoption, the 27th amendment has sparked widespread debate among legal experts, human rights advocates, and international observers. Critics argue that granting immunity to military leaders could set a dangerous precedent, potentially shielding them from accountability for human rights violations and other misconduct. Conversely, supporters claim that the amendment is necessary to strengthen the military’s role in safeguarding national sovereignty amid regional tensions, especially with neighboring India and ongoing security challenges in Afghanistan. Recent facts and context include: 1. The amendment was passed during a parliamentary session that was criticized for lacking transparency and adequate debate, raising concerns about democratic processes. 2. The UN’s warning aligns with a broader international trend of scrutinizing military influence over civilian institutions in Pakistan, which has historically experienced military coups and periods of military rule. 3. Pakistan’s military has historically played a dominant role in the country’s politics, with several former generals serving as Prime Minister or holding key government positions. 4. The amendment’s passage coincides with increased tensions between Pakistan and India, particularly over Kashmir, and has implications for regional stability. 5. Human rights organizations have expressed fears that the immunity clause could hinder investigations into alleged abuses by military personnel. 6. The Pakistani government has announced plans to hold a national dialogue on constitutional reforms, aiming to address some of the concerns raised internationally. 7. The amendment’s impact on judicial independence is being closely monitored by legal scholars, with some warning it could weaken the judiciary’s oversight of military actions. 8. International diplomatic channels, including the United States and European Union, have called for dialogue and transparency regarding the amendment’s implications. 9. The amendment has also sparked protests within Pakistan, with civil society groups demanding greater accountability and adherence to democratic principles. 10. Experts suggest that the long-term effects of this constitutional change could influence Pakistan’s foreign policy, especially in relation to counter-terrorism and regional alliances. As Pakistan navigates this complex political landscape, the international community remains watchful. The country’s future stability may depend on balancing military influence with democratic accountability, ensuring judicial independence, and fostering transparent governance. The debate surrounding the 27th amendment underscores the ongoing struggle in Pakistan to reconcile security needs with democratic principles, a challenge that will shape its political trajectory in the coming years.

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