A military court in Pakistan sentenced a former spy chief to 14 years in jail. The court handed down this historic verdict to Lt Gen (Retd) Faiz Hameed. He served as the head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI). Hameed led the ISI from 2019 to 2021. Importantly, this period overlapped with former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tenure. This case, consequently, marks the first court-martial of an ISI chief.
⚖️ Charges and Military Court Proceedings
Furthermore, the charges against the former spy chief are grave. They include violating state secrets. He was also charged with interfering in political activities. Misusing power and government resources was another charge. Moreover, Hameed faced charges of causing harm to citizens.
The court-martial began in August 2024. This 15-month-long trial operated under the Pakistan Army Act. Proceedings occurred behind closed doors. Therefore, the public does not know the specific verdict details. The military’s PR wing (ISPR) issued a press release. The ISPR stated Hameed maintained the right to a defense team. He also retains the right to appeal the decision.
🤝 Association with Imran Khan
Faiz Hameed was a staunch supporter of Imran Khan. The former spy chief took early retirement in 2022. Specifically, this happened shortly after Khan’s ousting. He reportedly maintained close ties to the former Prime Minister. The sentence of 14 years in jail is significant. Clearly, it affects a figure once considered the military’s second-most powerful position.
🧑⚖️ Appeal Planned Against the Verdict
Hameed’s lawyer, Mian Ali Ashfaq, plans to appeal. Initially, he expressed surprise when the military announced the verdict. The lawyer stated his client is innocent. The defense team is applying for a copy of the court’s decision. Subsequently, the first appeal will go to the army chief. They are hopeful that they will obtain justice in the next forum. Ultimately, the unprecedented sentence of 14 years in jail shows a major shift.
READ MORE: News
