RAWALPINDI: Sixty individuals, including Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder Imran Khan’s nephew, Hassan Khan Niazi, have been sentenced by military courts for their involvement in the May 9 riots, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) confirmed on Thursday.

According to the ISPR, the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) concluded trials after a thorough examination of evidence, ensuring all legal rights and due process were upheld. The sentences range from two to ten years of rigorous imprisonment, with Niazi receiving a 10-year sentence for his role in the attack on Lahore’s Jinnah House.

Sentences and Legal Rights

The ISPR emphasized that all convicts have the right to appeal, as guaranteed by the Constitution. “The nation, government, and armed forces are committed to upholding justice and ensuring the state’s writ remains intact,” the statement read.

This development follows the December 21 sentencing of 25 civilians for attacks on military installations during the riots triggered by Imran Khan’s arrest in a corruption case last year. These violent protests targeted key sites, including the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi and Lahore Corps Commander’s House.

International Concerns and Pakistan’s Response

The United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have raised concerns about the use of military courts to try civilians, arguing that it contravenes international law. In response, Pakistan’s Foreign Office (FO) defended the process, stating it adhered to parliamentary laws and a Supreme Court ruling. FO spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch reiterated Pakistan’s commitment to international human rights obligations.

Expert Opinions

Brigadier (retd) Waqar Hassan called for accountability of the “master planners” behind the riots, alleging that the attacks were orchestrated from abroad to destabilize the country. National security expert Syed Muhammad Ali emphasized that the trials followed due process, adding that no law permits attacks on state institutions. He criticized the West’s stance, questioning their adherence to international norms during the global war on terror.

Detailed Sentences

Among those convicted:

Hassan Khan Niazi: 10 years, involved in Jinnah House attack.

Raees Ahmed: 6 years, involved in the same incident.

Syed Hassan Shah: 9 years, linked to GHQ attack.

Ameen Shah: 9 years, connected to Bannu Cantonment attack.

Context and PTI’s Stance

The May 9 riots marked a turning point in Pakistan’s political landscape, with widespread violence following Imran Khan’s arrest. While PTI has distanced itself from the unrest, it has called for a judicial commission to investigate the events.

Meanwhile, the Supreme Court recently directed the finalization of cases pending military trials, paving the way for these convictions.

PTI has announced plans to challenge the sentences in civilian courts, calling the proceedings unjust.

This decisive action reflects the state’s resolve to safeguard its institutions while addressing the international community’s concerns about due process and human rights.