In a landmark move reshaping Pakistan’s military command structure, Parliament on Saturday passed a constitutional amendment paving the way for Army Chief General Asim Munir to assume charge as the country’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF).
The newly created position consolidates leadership of the Army, Navy, and Air Force under a single unified command — a move government officials claim will “enhance strategic coordination and operational efficiency” across all branches of the armed forces.
The amendment — passed with a clear majority in both the National Assembly and Senate — redefines the top tier of Pakistan’s defence hierarchy. It effectively places the CDF above individual service chiefs, granting him overarching authority on joint military operations, defence planning, and inter-service coordination.
Sources in the defence ministry confirmed that Gen. Munir will continue to oversee the Pakistan Army while transitioning into his expanded role. The CDF’s office will function directly under the Prime Minister, maintaining civilian oversight while integrating national defence strategy.
Political analysts view this as Pakistan’s most significant military restructuring in decades, aligning with global models such as India’s Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and the U.S. Joint Chiefs of Staff system.
Opposition members, however, expressed concern over potential “power concentration” within the military, urging for parliamentary scrutiny and clear legal boundaries for the new post.
A formal oath-taking ceremony is expected early next week at the President House, officially marking the beginning of Pakistan’s unified military command era.
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