Service Chiefs’ Tenure Extended: Army Act Amendment Approved

On Monday, Pakistan’s National Assembly passed six important bills, including one to increase the number of Supreme Court judges and another extending the tenures of armed services chiefs. The session was heated, with strong protests from the opposition.

Supreme Court Expansion
The first bill, introduced by Law Minister Azam Nazeer Tarar, aims to raise the number of Supreme Court judges to 34. Tarar explained that this change is necessary to clear a growing backlog of cases and will help establish constitutional benches to address legal matters more effectively. Despite opposition objections, the assembly quickly moved to vote on the bill.

Military Leadership Extension
The assembly also approved the Pakistan (Army/Air Force/Navy) Act Amendment Bill 2024, presented by Defense Minister Khawaja Asif. This amendment changes the tenure of the Chief of Army Staff from three years to five years, allowing for longer terms and the possibility of reappointment. This move is seen as a way to enhance stability within the military leadership.

The swift passage of these bills reflects the government’s commitment to reform, but the opposition remains vocal about their concerns regarding the process. The developments in the assembly could have significant implications for Pakistan’s judicial and military landscape.