The federal cabinet has approved amendments to two key defence-related laws following major constitutional changes to Pakistan’s military structure.
The decision was taken during a cabinet meeting chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif in Islamabad on Thursday. The approved amendments concern the Defence Forces Act 2026 and the National Command Authority Act 2010.
Both draft laws will now move to Parliament for consideration and approval during its ongoing session.
Defence Forces Act 2026 Approved
The federal cabinet approved the draft Defence Forces Act 2026 as a follow-up to changes introduced through the 27th Constitutional Amendment.
The proposed legislation seeks to establish the relevant administrative framework for the office of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF). It also addresses administrative matters concerning the CDF Headquarters.
The amendments are intended to provide a legal structure for the newly established military position. Once Parliament approves the legislation, the framework will further define administrative arrangements surrounding the office.
The draft will now be presented before Parliament during its current session. Lawmakers will review the proposed changes before deciding on their approval.
Amendments to National Command Authority Act
The federal cabinet also approved amendments to the National Command Authority Act 2010.
The changes have been described as necessary following the 27th Constitutional Amendment. The amended draft will also be presented before Parliament for approval.
The National Command Authority plays an important role in Pakistan’s strategic security framework. Therefore, changes to its governing legislation carry significance for the country’s defence structure.
Parliament will now consider both legislative proposals as part of the ongoing session.
27th Amendment Reshapes Military Structure
The 27th Constitutional Amendment introduced significant changes to Pakistan’s military hierarchy. One of the major changes involved the creation of the Chief of Defence Forces position.
The role is a dual-hatted position held concurrently by the Chief of Army Staff (COAS). Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir currently holds both positions.
COAS Munir became Pakistan’s first Chief of Defence Forces on December 4, 2025.
The creation of the position marked an important change in the country’s military command structure. Consequently, new legislation became necessary to establish the administrative and legal framework surrounding the office.
Draft Laws Now Head to Parliament
With cabinet approval secured, the next stage will involve parliamentary consideration. The government will present both draft amendments before lawmakers during the ongoing session.
The proposed Defence Forces Act 2026 will address administrative matters linked to the Chief of Defence Forces and the headquarters. Meanwhile, changes to the National Command Authority Act will update the existing legal framework.
Parliament’s approval will determine the next step in implementing the legislative changes. Together, the amendments seek to align existing laws with the military structure introduced through the 27th Constitutional Amendment.
