Long-term security will elude Pakistan military courts

Significance

A response to the deadly December 16 Peshawar terrorist attack, the legislation paves the way for re-establishing military courts to try suspected terrorists in an expeditious manner. Although all major political parties voted for the change, the idea of military courts amid civilian rule has generated bitter debate about their impact on democratic governance and efficacy in combating terrorism.

Impacts

• Pakistan-India ties are likely to be damaged by the amendments that grant the military a legal cover to choose 'good' and 'bad' jihadis.
• However, Pakistan's ties with Washington could improve.
• Civilian finance is likely for the military courts, shrinking Islamabad's already inadequate development spending.