Pakistan Defends Military Court Sentences for Protests

Pakistan's military courts sentenced 60 civilians to prison terms ranging from two to 10 years for their alleged involvement in violent protests on May 9, 2023, following Imran Khan's arrest on graft charges. Among those sentenced is Khan’s nephew, Hassan Khan Niazi, who received a 10-year term. The convictions, part of a wider crackdown that saw 85 individuals tried in military courts, have faced criticism from international entities such as the United States, United Kingdom, and European Union, citing concerns over the use of military tribunals for civilians. Pakistan's Inter-Services Public Relations stated that due process was followed, and the government remains committed to justice. The Foreign Office defended the legality of the military courts, asserting alignment with international human rights obligations.