Islamabad: The National Assembly has passed the Constitution (Twenty-seventh Amendment) Bill, 2025, which envisages the establishment of a federal constitutional court with equal provincial representation. The bill, comprising fifty-nine clauses, was introduced by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar. It received the support of two hundred and thirty-four members, meeting the requirement of two-thirds of the total membership of the House.

According to Radio Pakistan, the amendment aims to establish a federal constitutional court tasked with handling cases related to constitutional matters and interpretation of the constitution. The permanent seat of this court will be located in Islamabad. Additionally, the amendment provides the President with the authority to transfer a judge from one high court to another, based on recommendations from the Judicial Commission of Pakistan, which now includes the chief justices of both high courts involved.

The bill also introduces significant changes in military appointments. The President, advised by the Prime Minister, will appoint the Chief of the Army Staff as the Chief of the Defense Forces. Similarly, the chiefs of air and naval staff will be appointed on the Prime Minister’s advice. Effective November 27, 2025, the office of the Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee will be abolished. The Prime Minister, upon the recommendation of the Chief of the Army Staff, will appoint the Commander of the National Strategic Command from the Pakistan Army and determine his salaries and allowances.

Further provisions state that any member of the Armed Forces promoted to the rank of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, or Admiral of the Fleet will retain their rank and privileges for life. The Federal Government will determine their responsibilities and duties post-command in alignment with state interests.

Lastly, the amendment addresses legal immunities, stipulating that no criminal proceedings shall be initiated or continued against the President during their lifetime and against a governor during their term in office, except when the President holds a public office after their presidency.