Former ISI Chief Faiz Hameed Sentenced to 14 Years in Military Court

Post by : Raina Nasser

Faiz Hameed, the former head of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has been sentenced to a 14-year prison term by a military court for several offenses, including political interference and violations of state secrets. Hameed, who led the ISI from 2019 to 2021 under former Prime Minister Imran Khan, was a prominent ally of Khan. He retired shortly after Khan's ousting in a 2022 no-confidence vote.

This is a historic moment for Pakistan, marking the first time an ex-ISI chief has been court-martialed. Given that the ISI chief holds considerable influence in Pakistan's military framework, this development is noteworthy. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed that the court-martial proceedings commenced on August 12, 2024, under the provisions of the Pakistan Army Act.

Hameed was charged with four counts: engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act in ways harmful to the state, misusing authority and government resources, and endangering national security. The ISPR stated that Hameed had the liberty to select his defense team and may appeal the court's ruling in the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

The trial took place behind closed doors, and details regarding the case remain largely undisclosed. The ISPR has indicated that Hameed's purported involvement in inciting political unrest is under separate scrutiny, particularly relating to his actions linked to the protests following Imran Khan's arrest on May 9, 2023.

Hameed's sentencing could have profound ramifications for political and military relations in Pakistan, accentuating the ongoing conflicts between former government allies and the military. Analysts believe this ruling highlights the military's significant influence over political matters, especially in instances involving former intelligence chiefs.

This groundbreaking verdict emphasizes the accountability structures within Pakistan's military and underscores the legal repercussions that even the highest-ranking officials can face for abuses of power or threats to state security.