ISLAMABAD: The Pakistan Army announced on Thursday the sentencing of 60 Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) activists by the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) for their involvement in the violent protests of May 9. This marks the conclusion of trials for individuals held in military custody over attacks on army installations and monuments.
“The FGCM has issued sentences to the remaining 60 individuals after thoroughly examining all evidence, ensuring their legal rights, and following due process,” stated the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing.
Key Convictions
The convicted individuals, including prominent figures such as Hassaan Khan Niazi, a nephew of former Prime Minister Imran Khan, and two retired military officers, received sentences ranging from two to ten years of rigorous imprisonment.
Among those sentenced:
- 16 individuals received ten-year terms.
- Sentences for others varied between nine years to two years.
Retired Brigadier Javed Akram, 76, the oldest individual tried, received six years for his involvement in the Jinnah House attack. Retired Group Captain Viqas Ahmed Mohsin of the Pakistan Air Force was sentenced to two years.
Former PTI MPA Mian Muhammad Akram Usman, lawyer Haider Majeed, and PTI leader Abbad Farooq also received two-year sentences for their roles in the attacks.
Legal Context and Supreme Court Rulings
The trials adhered to the Supreme Court's conditional approval, granted on December 13, for announcing FGCM verdicts in civilian cases tied to the May 9 incidents. These rulings remain subject to appeals challenging the October 23 verdict that declared civilian trials by FGCM unconstitutional.
The May 9 protests erupted after the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan in connection with the Al-Qadir Trust graft case. A total of 105 cases were referred for trial in military courts.
International and Domestic Reactions
The verdicts have drawn sharp criticism from international entities, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, and the United States, over concerns about transparency and adherence to human rights standards.
From Adiala Jail, Imran Khan rejected the sentencing as unconstitutional, warning of potential economic sanctions and damage to Pakistan’s international reputation.
ISPR’s Response and Future Actions
In its latest statement, the ISPR emphasized that all convicts have the right to appeal and pursue legal remedies. While earlier announcements spoke of targeting the “masterminds and planners” of the May 9 incidents, the tone in the recent release was notably more reserved.
“The nation, government, and armed forces remain committed to upholding justice and ensuring the writ of the state,” the ISPR reaffirmed.
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