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Retired Lt Gen Faiz Hameed Indicted on Charges of Political Activities and Misconduct
Former ISI Chief Lt Gen Faiz Hameed formally indicted for political involvement, violating the Official Secrets Act, and misuse of authority. Proceedings underway under the Pakistan Army Act.
ND
by News Desk
2024-12-10
Retired Lt Gen Faiz Hameed Indicted on Charges of Political Activities and Misconduct

Retired Lt Gen Faiz Hameed, the former chief of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has been formally indicted on charges of engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act, misuse of authority, and causing harm to state interests, according to a press release by the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

This development follows months of investigation and proceedings under the Pakistan Army Act, initiated in August 2023. The military’s media wing highlighted that Gen Hameed is also being probed for his alleged involvement in creating unrest during the May 9, 2023 protests, orchestrated in collaboration with vested political interests.

Key Allegations

The allegations against Gen Hameed include:

  • Engaging in political activities.
  • Misusing government resources and authority.
  • Violating the Official Secrets Act, jeopardizing state security.
  • Causing wrongful losses to individuals and the state.

The charges also tie him to events on May 9, 2023, during which violent protests erupted nationwide following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.

Background and Context

Gen Hameed was taken into custody in August 2023 following complaints from the owner of Top City, a private housing society, alleging misconduct, extortion, and misuse of power. This marked a significant shift in Pakistan's civil-military dynamics, where former spy chiefs have traditionally wielded significant influence.

The Supreme Court had previously directed the housing society’s owner to pursue legal recourse through the Ministry of Defence. Following this, a military inquiry committee was formed, leading to Gen Hameed’s detention and formal indictment.

Further accusations have surfaced involving financial impropriety, extortion, and links to controversial property dealings. Notably, allegations against Gen Hameed also claim his involvement in manipulating judicial proceedings and political dynamics during his tenure.

Implications for Civil-Military Relations

This indictment comes amidst heightened scrutiny of civil-military relations in Pakistan. Political commentators and analysts, including PML-N Senator Talal Chaudhry, have labeled the proceedings a critical moment for accountability, describing the charges as reflective of a broader "Imran-Faiz nexus."

Meanwhile, PTI leadership, including Imran Khan, has distanced itself from Gen Hameed, terming the trial an “internal matter of the military.”

Next Steps

Gen Hameed is being afforded all legal rights under military law. As the Field General Court Martial progresses, the outcomes are expected to have far-reaching implications for Pakistan’s political and military landscape.
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