Former ISI Chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed Faces Court Martial, Charges of Misconduct

In a significant development, former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed (Retd) has been formally arraigned on multiple charges, including engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act, misuse of authority, and causing harm to state interests and individuals. The charges were outlined in a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Monday.

The proceedings against Lt Gen Hameed mark a rare move against a former top military officer, highlighting allegations of misconduct during his tenure. The arrest, announced four months ago, was reportedly prompted by allegations from the owner of Islamabad’s Top City housing society, who accused the former spymaster of misusing his authority.

Arrest and Charges

According to sources, Lt Gen Hameed was taken into custody in Rawalpindi after being summoned by senior military officials. His alleged involvement in inciting unrest during violent protests on May 9, 2023, which followed the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, is also under investigation. The protests saw damage to approximately 40 public and military installations. The ISPR emphasized that the accused is being afforded all legal rights under the law.

Background and Allegations

The case against Lt Gen Hameed stems from allegations made by Kanwar Moeez Khan, owner of the Top City housing society, who claimed that the general orchestrated a raid on his property, resulting in financial and material losses. The Supreme Court had earlier directed Khan to pursue his grievances through appropriate channels, including the Ministry of Defence.

Additionally, reports link Lt Gen Hameed and other retired officers to extortion and coercion schemes involving the housing society, including demands for substantial payments and sponsorship of a private television channel.

In connection with the case, three other retired officers—Brig Ghaffar, Brig Naeem Fakhar, and Col Asim—were arrested earlier this year.

Political Implications

The development has sparked political debate, with leaders from opposing factions weighing in. Pakistan Muslim League-Nawaz (PML-N) Senator Talal Chaudhry called the charges a “charge sheet against the Faiz-Imran nexus,” alleging that the events of May 9 were a premeditated rebellion involving both serving and retired military officers.

Meanwhile, the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) distanced itself from the issue, with former Prime Minister Imran Khan labeling it as the military’s internal matter. PTI leaders have denied any connection between the party and Lt Gen Hameed’s alleged actions.

Controversial Tenure

Lt Gen Hameed’s tenure as ISI chief was marked by controversy. Appointed in June 2019, he played a pivotal role in several high-profile political and military developments, including the resolution of the Faizabad sit-in in 2017. His name has frequently surfaced in allegations of judicial manipulation, political interference, and corruption.

In recent years, he has been accused of amassing assets beyond known means and supporting controversial policies, such as facilitating the return of the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP).

Ongoing Investigations

The military’s internal accountability mechanism is being lauded for its transparency, with ISPR confirming that investigations against Lt Gen Hameed and others are based on concrete evidence. A separate inquiry into his alleged connections to other illegal activities, including encroachment on national park land, is also underway.

As the court martial proceedings progress, observers are closely watching how this unprecedented case could reshape perceptions of accountability within Pakistan’s powerful military establishment.