UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Volker Türk has strongly criticised Pakistan’s newly adopted constitutional amendments, warning that they “seriously undermine judicial independence” and pose a threat to the country’s democratic framework.
In a video statement released on the United Nations’ social media platform, Türk noted that the latest constitutional change—similar to the earlier 26th Amendment—was pushed through without consultation with the legal community or the Pakistani public.
“Pakistan’s hastily adopted constitutional amendments seriously undermine judicial independence and raise grave concerns about military accountability and respect for the rule of law,” Türk said. “These changes, taken together, risk subjugating the judiciary to political interference and executive control.”
He further cautioned that the amendments could have far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s democratic values, saying they threaten principles that “the Pakistani people hold dear.”
New Court Structure Dilutes Supreme Court Authority
On November 13, Pakistan approved amendments establishing a new Federal Constitutional Court, shifting the power to hear constitutional cases away from the Supreme Court. Under the revised structure, the Supreme Court will now be limited to handling civil and criminal matters, marking one of the most significant restructurings of Pakistan’s judiciary in recent years.
Military Consolidates Power with New ‘Chief of Defence Forces’ Role
The amendments come at a time when Pakistan’s military leadership has entered what experts describe as its most powerful phase yet.
Army Chief Asim Munir assumed the newly created position of Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) on Thursday, making him the first to hold the role. The CDF will now exercise overarching control of all three armed forces—a responsibility previously shared between the President and the Cabinet.
President Zardari Signs 27th Constitutional Amendment
President Asif Ali Zardari formally signed the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill on November 13, after both houses of Parliament granted approval. With the presidential assent, the amendment now becomes part of Pakistan’s Constitution.
One of its most debated provisions includes granting lifelong immunity from criminal proceedings and arrest to the President, Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, and Admiral of the Fleet.
Rights Council Condemns Arrests of Protesters
Amid rising concerns, Pakistan’s Human Rights Council has criticised the “illegal arrest and five-hour detention” of its member Farwa Askar and journalist Alifia Sohail.
The two were detained while peacefully protesting against the 27th Amendment outside the Karachi Press Club. Their arrest has intensified the controversy surrounding the constitutional changes, drawing further scrutiny from international rights groups.