A multi-party opposition alliance, Tehreek-e-Tahafuz Ayeen-e-Pakistan (TTAP), has announced protests across the country over the 27th Amendment.
The alliance includes the Majlis Wahdat-e-Muslimeen (MWM), Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), Pashtunkhwa Milli Awami Party (PkMAP), Balochistan National Party-Mengal (BNP-M) and Sunni Ittehad Council (SIC).
The protests will start from Nov 9th (Sunday).
PkMAP Chief Mahmood Khan Achakzai also announced the slogans. Through this movement, the alliance will show that the will of the people of Pakistan will be the final decision, he added.
Background
The government presented the much anticipated draft of the 27th Constitutional Amendment Bill in the Senate on Saturday afternoon.
After this amendment, the army chief will be recognised as Chief of Defence Forces, positioned at top of Pakistan’s armed services.
Moreover, under the amendment, the Commander of the National Strategic Command will be appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendation of the Army Chief, who will also serve as Chief of Defence Forces. The new framework will align with the country’s nuclear program, National Command Authority, and Strategic Plans Division.
The document states that the ranks of Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, and Admiral of the Fleet will be reserved for officers who have rendered historic services. Retaining these ranks for life will be a way to honour their national contribution, though their official appointments will end after the completion of tenure.
Speaking on the floor of the house, Law Minister Azam Tarar said has that the creation of the Chief of Defence Forces and the National Strategic Command will further strengthen Pakistan’s security and defence structure.
He also said that it is clarified that the “impeachment or reversal” of the title would not be at the premier’s authority but the Parliament’s, adding that the office of CJCSC would be abolished from November 27, 2025.
