The recent 14-year sentence handed to former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lieutenant General (retd) Faiz Hameed has drawn strong reactions from politicians, who have described the verdict as a historic step for accountability and the rule of law in Pakistan.
Federal Information Minister Atta Tarar termed the verdict “a day of victory for truth.” Speaking to Geo News, he highlighted the 15-month-long trial under the Pakistan Army Act, highlighting that it involved extensive evidence, witness testimonies, and a thorough legal process.
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“Faiz Hameed became a political advisor to PTI after retirement and fully supported the party. His involvement in incidents such as May 9 has been proven,” Tarar said.
He added that the accountability process has been strengthened, noting that the former general was given ample opportunity to present evidence and witnesses.
READ: Ex-General Faiz Hameed sentenced to 14 years after 15-month trial
Tarar further stated that investigations into other instances of political interference by Faiz Hameed are ongoing, describing his actions as attempts to “weaken the writ of the state.”
Defense Minister Khawaja Asif also commented on the verdict, reflecting on its long-term implications. In a social media statement, he prayed for righteous leadership in the country, saying, “May Allah grant us the ability to use power and authority for His creation, considering it as His gift. May the fear of God guide our rulers.”
READ: History of court martials among Pakistan’s senior military officers
Senator Faisal Vawda described the sentence as just the beginning of a wider accountability process.
“The cases related to May 9 are still pending. Faiz Hameed’s sentence marks the start of a long chain of justice that will not stop,” he said.
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Vawda added that political parties involved in these events will also be held accountable, stressing that “no one is above Pakistan.”
The verdict has sparked discussions on the ongoing accountability measures within the military and political spheres, with officials emphasizing the importance of upholding the law regardless of rank or position.
