A Pakistani military court has sentenced 25 civilians to prison terms ranging from two to ten years in connection with attacks on military facilities during the violent protests following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in May 2023. The sentences, announced on Saturday, have raised concerns both domestically and internationally, with the United States expressing deep apprehension over the lack of judicial independence and due process.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the military’s media wing, the sentences were a significant step in dispensing justice for the nation. The individuals were involved in violent protests on May 9, 2023, when Khan’s supporters stormed military installations and set fire to a general’s residence, resulting in the deaths of at least eight people. The violence was sparked by Khan’s arrest by paramilitary forces, which led to widespread unrest across the country.
The military court’s ruling highlights growing fears among Khan’s supporters that military courts could play an increasingly central role in legal proceedings involving the former prime minister. Khan, who faces multiple charges including allegedly inciting attacks against the armed forces, is currently imprisoned as he battles legal challenges. His supporters argue that the military is using these courts to suppress dissent and maintain control.
While the Pakistani government hailed the court’s actions as an important milestone in achieving justice, international critics, including the United States, have raised concerns about the fairness of the trial process. U.S. State Department spokesperson Matthew Miller condemned the sentences, pointing out that military tribunals lack transparency, judicial independence, and due process protections for civilians.
“The United States is deeply concerned that Pakistani civilians have been sentenced by a military tribunal for their involvement in protests on May 9, 2023. These military courts lack judicial independence, transparency, and due process guarantees,” Miller said in a statement, reiterating the U.S. call for Pakistan to uphold the right to a fair trial as enshrined in its constitution.
The U.S. criticism has sparked a strong reaction from prominent political figures. Richard Grenell, a former aide to President Donald Trump, described the U.S. response as insufficient and urged for more decisive action. “You are late. And this is too little and too weak. Speak normally. Free Imran Khan,” Grenell said, emphasizing the need for action to secure Khan’s release.
Indian-American Congressman Ro Khanna joined Grenell in calling for Khan’s release and new democratic elections in Pakistan. “It’s time to free Imran Khan and allow the people of Pakistan to hold new democratic elections,” Khanna said, echoing calls for a fair political process.
Zalmay Khalilzad, a former U.S. envoy to Afghanistan, also voiced concerns, urging greater pressure on Pakistan’s military to facilitate a political resolution. “It’s time to put more pressure on Pakistan, especially the military, to facilitate reaching a balanced political agreement with PTI and the release of Imran Khan,” Khalilzad said, emphasizing the need for reconciliation between the government and Khan’s Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party.
The sentencing of civilians and the ongoing political unrest in Pakistan highlight the deepening political crisis in the country, with critics pointing to the growing influence of the military in shaping the nation’s political landscape. As the situation continues to evolve, the international community remains closely focused on Pakistan’s legal and political developments, with many urging a peaceful resolution to the crisis and a return to democratic processes.
Sources By Agencies
