Islamabad, Pakistan - The military has formally charged retired Lieutenant-General Faiz Hamid, former head of the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), with engaging in political activities aimed at destabilizing the country. This development follows months of investigations and proceedings under the Pakistan Army Act.
Hamid was arrested in August 2024, with the military alleging his involvement in creating agitation and unrest linked to events on May 9, 2023, when protests erupted following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan. Supporters of Khan's Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) party targeted state buildings and military installations during these protests, resulting in thousands of arrests.
The charges against Hamid include violations of the Official Secrets Act, misuse of authority, and improper use of government resources. His arrest was prompted by allegations of multiple violations of the Army Act following his retirement in December 2022. The military's media wing has stated that the investigation includes claims of collusion with political interests.
Defence Minister Khawaja Asif has indicated that Hamid was involved in political affairs even after his retirement, a claim that has been echoed by various political commentators. Hamid's tenure as ISI chief was marked by serious allegations of political targeting and human rights abuses.
The military's actions against Hamid are unprecedented, as no former spy chief has faced a court martial before. This situation raises questions about the extent of military involvement in political matters, especially given the historical context of military rule in Pakistan.
Political analysts suggest that the charges against Hamid reflect a significant shift within the military's approach to accountability and political interference. The outcome of these proceedings could have far-reaching implications for Pakistan's political landscape.