Lt Gen Faiz Hameed Indicted, Court Martial Process Underway

According to the ISPR, The charges

also include allegations of inciting

unrest and contributing to the May 9, 2023

Web Desk

Islamabad: Former Intelligence Chief, Retired Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, has been formally indicted for “engaging in political activities,” according to a statement from the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR). This development follows nearly four months after the army announced his arrest and the initiation of Field General Court Martial (FGCM) proceedings in August, based on allegations of violating the Army Act.

Background and Allegations Against Gen Hameed

The indictment comes after Gen Hameed was apprehended in Rawalpindi during a meeting called by a senior military official. The arrest was prompted by accusations made by Kanwar Moeez Khan, owner of Islamabad’s Top City housing society. Allegations of misconduct and abuse of power tarnished the perception of the ISI as an untouchable institution, where generals have historically exerted significant influence.

The ISPR cited a Supreme Court directive from November 2023, which advised Moeez Khan to seek legal redress against Gen Hameed through the Ministry of Defence and other relevant channels.

Details of the Charges

According to the ISPR, Gen Hameed is charged with engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act, misusing government resources, and causing wrongful loss to individuals. The charges also include allegations of inciting unrest and contributing to the May 9, 2023, incidents, which saw nationwide protests and damage to public buildings and military installations following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Additional Developments and Investigations

The ISPR statement emphasized that Gen Hameed is being provided with all legal rights. The military also announced the arrest of three more retired officers—Brig Ghaffar, Brig Naeem Fakhar, and Col Asim—on charges related to their involvement in inciting instability. These arrests were linked to the same Supreme Court petition involving Top City housing society, which alleged the extortion of Rs 40 million and coercion for private TV sponsorship.

Controversial Past and Legacy

Gen Hameed, a former ISI chief appointed in 2019, was previously embroiled in controversies involving alleged interference in judicial matters and political maneuvering during the PTI government’s tenure. His name came under public scrutiny for allegedly influencing judicial outcomes and backing specific political agendas. The former spymaster also faced accusations of wanting to reintegrate the banned Tehreek-i-Taliban Pakistan (TTP) into the country, as stated by then-human rights minister Riaz Pirzada in February 2023.

Further Investigation and Legal Proceedings

The case has widened, with additional investigations into Gen Hameed’s actions and his alleged involvement in orchestrating raids on Top City, leading to accusations of extortion and misuse of authority. The military had formed an inquiry committee in April 2023 to probe these claims, following directives from the Supreme Court and the Ministry of Defence.

This development marks a significant turning point in Pakistan’s military and political landscape, raising questions about the influence and accountability of powerful figures within the armed forces.

Conclusion

Gen Hameed’s indictment and ongoing proceedings are expected to have far-reaching political and legal repercussions. The case continues to unfold, with future updates likely to shed light on the deeper implications for both military and political spheres in Pakistan.