Controversy Erupts Over Pakistan’s First Chief of Defence Forces, Mufti Challenges Aasim Munir’s Authority

ISLAMABAD: The appointment of Aasim Munir as Pakistan’s first Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) has sparked intense debate across the country’s political and religious spheres. The post, created through a controversial constitutional amendment, grants Munir unprecedented powers, including lifelong legal immunity for actions taken while in office.

Religious Challenge to Munir’s Authority
Mufti Taqi Usmani, affiliated with Maulana Fazlur Rehman’s Jamiat Ulema-e-Islam-Fazl (JUI-F), has openly criticized Munir’s expanded powers. According to Mufti Usmani, the immunity granted to Munir under the 27th constitutional amendment is illegitimate from an Islamic perspective. He declared that Munir’s powers are haram (Islamically prohibited) and questioned the government’s endorsement of such authority.

Speaking to CNN-News18, Mufti Usmani argued that Islamic principles do not allow any individual to be above accountability — whether a common citizen, ruler, general, or even a caliph. He warned that granting lifelong exemption from civil or criminal responsibility contradicts Islamic law.

Political Backlash and JUI-F’s Dissent
The CDF appointment has triggered unease within JUI-F, particularly among leaders who previously participated in the PDM coalition that removed Imran Khan in 2022. The party alleges that Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif’s government violated Quranic principles by granting Munir absolute immunity, effectively placing unchecked power in the hands of the army. JUI-F chief Maulana Fazlur Rehman reportedly views the government as a puppet regime benefiting only PML-N and PPP.

Reports suggest that Fazlur Rehman is being urged to distance himself from governance, as the current alliance is increasingly perceived as a non-Islamic coalition. Mufti Usmani’s recent statements have amplified the crisis, publicly challenging both Munir and the Sharif government.

The controversy underscores growing tension between Pakistan’s military authority and religious-political leaders, raising questions about accountability, governance, and the interpretation of constitutional amendments within the framework of Islamic law.