The parliament in Pakistan has authorized a major constitutional amendment, under which President Asif Ali Zardari and top military commanders will have lifetime immunity and exercise increased control over all three armed forces. The 27th Amendment also establishes a new Federal Constitutional Court, restricts the power of the Supreme Court, and prohibits the Supreme Court from questioning constitutional amendments. Being criticized, the move, as critics point out, undermines democracy, the independence of the judicial system, and the centralization of military power. The bill was passed by both houses with a two-thirds majority amidst severe opposition and signed by the president.
Pakistan Grants Lifetime Immunity to President, Current Army Chief
