Kathmandu— Pakistan has significantly broadened the powers of its military chief, General Asim Munir, through the passage of two new laws on Thursday. The Defense Forces Act, 2026, and an amended National Command Authority Act, 2010, expand the statutory role of the Chief of Defense Forces (CDF), a position created in 2023, granting him greater control over personnel matters, military operations, and national security decisions. These changes consolidate Munir’s influence as both army chief and senior military advisor to the prime minister, effectively giving him command over all branches of Pakistan's armed forces and oversight of its nuclear capabilities.

Expanded Authority Over Personnel

The Defense Forces Act allows the CDF to exercise powers related to “multidomain integration, operational cohesion, coordination and oversight” within the Armed Forces. Critically, it also grants Munir the authority to manage the careers of military personnel, including the power to retire, release, accept resignations from, or retain in service almost any officer—with exceptions only for positions appointed directly by the president on the advice of the prime minister, such as the chiefs of the army, navy and air force. He is also empowered to relax age or service limits for military personnel.

Consolidation of Military Influence

Pakistan’s constitution already mandates that the CDF also serve as the army chief—the most powerful position in the country—effectively placing Munir in command of the army, navy and air force. Furthermore, as senior military advisor to Pakistan's nuclear command, he holds a key role in strategic decision-making. The new laws reinforce this consolidation by designating Munir as the prime minister’s principal military advisor, solidifying the military leadership’s position within the government.

Legislative Process and Background

The bills were approved by the federal cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and presented to the National Assembly by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif despite not being on the agenda. They passed following a walkout by opposition members, having been drafted as a follow-up to the 27th Constitutional Amendment enacted last year. That amendment reorganized Pakistan’s military command structure, establishing both the CDF and commander of the national strategic command.

Recent Military Promotions

These legislative changes build upon recent developments within the Pakistani military. Last year's constitutional amendment also provided Munir with immunity from arrest or prosecution related to actions taken during his tenure and rank. In May 2025, he was promoted to the rank of field marshal—a title previously held only by Ayub Khan in Pakistan’s history.

The newly enacted laws represent a significant expansion of authority for Pakistan's military chief, solidifying his position as a central figure in both defense and national security matters.

(With inputs from RT)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.