Geneva, Nov. 28 -- The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, has expressed deep alarm over Pakistan's latest constitutional amendment, saying it poses a serious challenge to the country's judicial independence, military accountability, and the overall rule of law.

In a press release, Turk said the amendment adopted hastily and without public or legal consultation follows the pattern of last year's 26th Amendment, which similarly bypassed engagement with the judiciary and civil society.

He stated that such unilateral actions go against the fundamental principle of separation of powers that underpins democracy and safeguards human rights in Pakistan.

The amendment, passed on 13 November, establishes a new Federa...