The Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) has announced plans to challenge military court sentences given to its workers and supporters involved in the May 9 riots. PTI leaders argue that trying civilians in military courts violates principles of justice and constitutional law.
Barrister Gohar Ali Khan, PTI Chairman, called for a judicial commission to investigate the May 9 riots and the November 26 crackdown on PTI protesters. His remarks came after military courts sentenced 60 additional individuals, bringing the total number of convictions to 85. Among the convicted was Hassan Khan Niazi, nephew of PTI founder Imran Khan, who received a 10-year rigorous imprisonment sentence.
The military’s media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), stated that the trials followed due process, ensuring legal rights and the ability to appeal as per the Constitution. The trials have drawn criticism from international entities, including the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, who argue that trying civilians in military courts contradicts international law.
PTI’s Barrister Gohar announced plans to file individual appeals and urged the Supreme Court to expedite its decision on the legality of military trials. National Assembly Opposition Leader Omar Ayub emphasized that the military should not act as the judiciary, asserting that civilians must be tried in civilian courts. He further highlighted that all institutions, including the military, are subordinate to the state under Article 7 of the Constitution.
Responding to international concerns, the Foreign Office (FO) defended the military courts’ judgments, asserting they were conducted under parliamentary law and aligned with the Supreme Court’s rulings. FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stated that Pakistan remains committed to human rights obligations and judicial oversight.
The protests, sparked by Imran Khan’s arrest in a graft case, led to widespread violence, including attacks on military installations. PTI has denied involvement in these incidents and continues to call for a judicial probe.
