Pak Supreme Court Ends Deadlock With Military Establishment; Grants Gen Bajwa Six Months Extension As Army Chief

Pakistan Army chief General Qamar has today (28 November) received at least short-term relief from the Supreme Court of Pakistan, which has granted him an extension of six months at his current position of chief of army staff, reports Dawn.

The country’s apex court had earlier sent shockwaves running through the country’s establishment after suspending the federal government’s notification granting the general a three year extension.

During this six-month period, the country’s National Assembly will draft new legislation which will clarify the legal position regarding the reappointment or extension of an army chief. After six months are over, a further extension of Bajwa’s tenure will be determined the new law.

Although the court’s judgment gives some time to the country’s establishment plan their moves going forward, there is still strong opposition to an extension for the general in the country. Today (28 November) itself Bar Council of Pakistan carried out a strike across the country against this move by the federal government, and it may be expected that they will continue to oppose Bajwa remaining at the helm