The recent appointments of the Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and the Commander of the National Strategic Command represent a significant step in strengthening Pakistan’s national security architecture and operational efficiency.
On the advice of the Prime Minister, the Army Chief has been concurrently appointed as the Chief of Defence Forces. This move, fully in line with the Constitution, clarifies civilian oversight and the chain of command, eliminates the division of powers and dual leadership, and ensures faster decision-making with clearly defined responsibilities. The appointment under Article 48 and 243 of the Constitution reflects the proper exercise of the Prime Minister’s advisory authority.
The decision to discontinue the post of Chairman Joint Chiefs of Staff Committee was driven by operational realities. The position was primarily advisory, lacking real operational command. In Pakistan, the backbone of defence strategy rests on ground-level operations, which are led by the Army Chief. This strategic framework is critical given the persistent threat from India, influenced by Hindutva ideology and the ambition of Akhand Bharat, as well as over two decades of cross-border terrorism originating from the western front, backed by external actors including Afghan Taliban factions. Centralizing operational command under the Army Chief as CDF ensures institutional efficiency, coherence in strategic planning, and unity in wartime decision-making.
The Commander of the National Strategic Command will be appointed by the Prime Minister on the recommendation of the Army Chief (CDF). This aligns with the structure of Pakistan’s nuclear programme, National Command Authority, and Strategic Plans Division, ensuring decisions remain professional, security-focused, and insulated from political interference.
Ranks such as Field Marshal, Marshal of the Air Force, and Admiral of the Fleet are reserved for officers who have rendered historic services. Constitutionally, these ranks are retained for life as a mark of national honour, though the appointment itself is time-bound and will conclude after a designated tenure.
Maintaining uniforms, privileges, and ranks is part of institutional memory. These positions can only be revoked under Article 47, reinforcing that such ranks are subject to constitutional accountability. Legal safeguards under Article 248 protect these officers from political retribution, similar to the protections afforded to the President of Pakistan.
Even after completion of their term, the state can assign these officers strategic, military, or diplomatic responsibilities to leverage their expertise and ensure institutional continuity. The Prime Minister’s advisory role in determining their benefits and salaries reflects adherence to constitutional order, loyalty, and national dignity.
These reforms are not aimed at individual officers or expanding authority; they are designed to provide constitutional clarity, professional reorganization of defence institutions, strengthening of federal authority, and continuity in Pakistan’s national security strategy.
