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Former ISI director handed 14-year prison term
Faiz Hameed, who led Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence agency from 2019 to 2021, was convicted on Thursday by a military tribunal for violating state secrets and meddling in politics, the armed forces announced.
Background and charges
Hameed, a close ally of imprisoned ex-prime minister Imran Khan, retired early in 2022 after Khan lost a no-confidence vote. He is the first ISI chief in Pakistan's history to face a court-martial.
The military's public-relations wing, ISPR, said the 15-month trial opened on 12 August 2024 under the Pakistan Army Act. Hameed faced four counts: political interference, breaching the Official Secrets Act in a manner harmful to the state, abusing his authority and government resources, and harming citizens.
Closed-door proceedings and verdict
The hearings were held behind closed doors, so the precise evidence remains classified. ISPR stated that Hameed was allowed a defence team of his choosing and retains the right to appeal to the Supreme Court.
A separate inquiry is reportedly examining allegations that Hameed helped stoke unrest following Khan's arrest on 9 May 2023.
Defence reaction and next steps
Hameed's lawyer, Mian Ali Ashfaq, told the BBC his client is "1,000% innocent" and learned of the verdict only through the ISPR press release.
"We were unaware of the judgement and only found out through the ISPR's press release. We are now applying to the relevant forum for a copy of the decision. As soon as we receive it, we will review it and immediately file a petition to appeal."
Mian Ali Ashfaq, defence counsel
The first appeal will go to the army chief; Ashfaq said he is confident justice will prevail at the next level.
Broader context
The ISI chief is widely regarded as the second-most powerful post in Pakistan's military establishment. Hameed's conviction underscores the military's determination to enforce internal discipline amid persistent allegations of political interference.
