ISLAMABAD: A new designation titled “Commander of Defence Forces” (CDF) is being considered under the proposed 27th Constitutional Amendment. The amendment seeks to revise Article 243 to enhance coordination and ensure a unified command structure among Pakistan’s three armed services.
Reform Driven by Modern Warfare Needs
According to sources, the proposal draws inspiration from recent Pakistan-India war scenarios and the evolving nature of modern warfare, which requires an integrated operational response. The government aims to strengthen defence management through structural reforms and consolidated leadership, according to The News report.
Proposed Amendments to Article 243
Currently, Article 243 states that “The Federal Government shall have control and command of the Armed Forces” and that “the Supreme Command of the Armed Forces shall vest in the President.” The new amendment would potentially modify these clauses to introduce the CDF role and streamline the command hierarchy.
Political Consultations Underway
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif confirmed that consultations are ongoing to amend Article 243, citing “changing defence requirements.” He emphasized that the process would be conducted through mutual consensus. The Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) government is seeking coalition support for the proposed constitutional changes.
PPP Offers Conditional Support
Following its Central Executive Committee (CEC) meeting, Pakistan Peoples Party (PPP) Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari announced conditional support for amending Article 243. However, the PPP rejected other proposed changes, particularly those related to the National Finance Commission (NFC) award formula.
Judicial Reforms Also Included
The amendment also proposes the establishment of a seven-member Constitutional Court as part of wider judicial reforms. The retirement age for its judges would be set at 68 years—three years higher than that of Supreme Court judges. Justice Aminuddin Khan is expected to be appointed as the first Chief Justice of the new court.
