Pakistan Military Court Sentences Ex-ISI Chief Faiz Hamid to 14 Years After Rare Conviction

Pakistan has sentenced former ISI chief Faiz Hamid to 14 years in jail. The ruling came from a military court in Rawalpindi on Thursday. It marks one of the rare trials of a powerful retired general in the country. The case involves charges linked to political interference and misuse of authority.

The military said the verdict followed a long legal process. The court found Hamid guilty on four charges. The ruling comes during a tense political climate as former Prime Minister Imran Khan also remains in jail.

Pakistan Military Court Ruling Marks Major Shift

According to Reuters, the military confirmed that Faiz Hamid was charged under the Official Secrets Act and other laws. The charges included political involvement, misuse of state assets, and actions harmful to national security. Each charge carries serious penalties within Pakistan’s military justice system.

Hamid served as ISI chief from 2019 to 2021. He worked closely with Imran Khan during that time. Their partnership later became a point of strain between Khan and the military’s top ranks. The court did not release details of the specific incidents but said the process was extensive and followed due steps.

The army also stated that Hamid can appeal the decision. He is already under investigation for his alleged role in violent protests by Khan’s supporters in May 2023. Those attacks targeted several military buildings after Khan’s arrest.

The civilian government has accused Hamid of helping Khan’s party carry out political pressure campaigns. Officials said he “crossed red lines” by acting as an advisor to political groups. His legal team did not comment publicly on the ruling.

Impact on Pakistan’s Politics and Military Balance

The sentence adds new tension to Pakistan’s political environment. It comes as Khan and many leaders of his party face trials under anti-terror laws. The military continues to deny any role in removing Khan from office in 2022. Khan claims the opposite.

The conviction may shape future ties between civilian leaders and the armed forces. Pakistan’s military has ruled directly for more than 30 years of its history. It remains a dominant force in government planning. Analysts say the verdict signals a message that no officer is fully shielded from legal action.

Many citizens will watch closely to see whether the appeal process changes the outcome. The case also highlights the military’s growing push to regain control after months of political unrest. For now, the 14-year sentence stands as one of the strongest actions taken against a top retired general.

The case of Faiz Hamid will remain a key moment in Pakistan’s legal and political record. The military court decision places the former ISI chief at the center of a major national dispute. The keyword ‘Pakistan military court’ will continue to shape global attention on this case.

Thought you’d like to know-

Q1: What did the Pakistan military court decide?

The court sentenced Faiz Hamid to 14 years. It found him guilty on four counts. The charges included political interference and misuse of authority.

Q2: Why was Faiz Hamid tried?

The military accused him of engaging in politics and violating the Official Secrets Act. Officials said his actions risked national security. He also faced charges tied to misuse of resources.

Q3: What is his link to Imran Khan?

Hamid worked closely with Khan when he was ISI chief. Their ties later created friction with military leadership. Both now face major legal battles.

Q4: Can Faiz Hamid appeal the ruling?

Yes, the military says he has the right to appeal. The process may take time. It could affect the final outcome.

Q5: What happens next in the case?

Hamid remains in custody during the appeal stage. A separate investigation into the 2023 protests is also ongoing. More charges could follow.

Trusted Sources

Reuters
Associated Press
BBC News