Former ISI Chief Faiz Hameed Sentenced to 14 Years in Military Prison
Pakistan’s former spy chief, Faiz Hameed, has received a 14-year prison sentence handed down by a military tribunal for various offenses, including violations of state secrets and engaging in political activities. This unprecedented move against an individual in such a powerful position underscores the increasing tensions within the country’s military and political landscape.
Why It Matters
The sentencing of Faiz Hameed is significant not only because of his former role as the head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), considered the second most powerful position in Pakistan’s military establishment, but also due to its implications for the ongoing political instability in the country. The case spotlights issues of accountability and the military’s involvement in politics, especially in the wake of Imran Khan’s ousting and arrest.
Key Developments
- Hameed led the ISI from 2019 to 2021 and was a key ally of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
- The military court proceedings began on August 12, 2024, under the Pakistan Army Act.
- The court found Hameed guilty of multiple charges, including political interference and misuse of state resources.
- His lawyer, Mian Ali Ashfaq, announced plans to appeal the verdict, asserting Hameed’s innocence.
- The judgment details remain confidential as the military court proceedings were held behind closed doors.
Full Report
In a landmark decision, a military court in Pakistan sentenced former ISI chief Faiz Hameed to 14 years in prison. The charges against him included misconduct involving state secrets, political interference, and misusing his official powers during his tenure. His leadership period coincided with a highly tumultuous political climate, particularly surrounding the administration of Imran Khan, who was removed from office through a no-confidence vote in 2022.
The Pakistan Army’s public relations wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), issued a statement outlining the court martial’s findings after 15 months of proceedings. Hameed faced four primary charges, including engaging in political activities that allegedly harmed national interests. The statement also articulated that he was permitted to have a defense team and granted the right to appeal through appropriate legal channels.
Hameed’s lawyer expressed discontent over the lack of transparency, revealing that they only learned about the conviction through the ISPR’s announcement. He affirmed Hameed’s intention to fight the decision, starting with an appeal to the army chief.
In a separate ongoing inquiry, Hameed’s potential role in inciting political unrest—specifically related to the protests following Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023—is being investigated.
Context & Previous Events
Faiz Hameed served as the head of Pakistan’s ISI from 2019 until his retirement in 2021. His tenure was marked by his strong support for Imran Khan. Following Khan’s ousting in April 2022, Hameed retired soon afterward. His court martial represents the first instance of an ISI chief facing such legal consequences in Pakistan’s history.
