Pakistan ex-ISI chief Faiz Hameed sentenced to 14 years by military court

Guwahati: Pakistan’s former intelligence chief, Faiz Hameed, has been sentenced to 14 years in prison by a military court on multiple charges, including violating state secrets and interfering in politics.

Hameed headed the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) agency from 2019 to 2021, during the tenure of former prime minister Imran Khan, who is currently jailed.

Known as a close supporter of Khan, Hameed took early retirement after Khan was removed from office through a no-confidence vote in 2022.

This is the first time in Pakistan’s history that a former ISI chief has been court-martialled.

The ISI chief is widely regarded as the second most powerful position in the country’s military. Hameed’s lawyer has said he will challenge the verdict.

According to a statement issued by the military’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the court martial lasted 15 months and began on August 12, 2024, under the Pakistan Army Act.

Hameed faced four charges, including involvement in political activities, violation of the Official Secrets Act, misuse of authority and state resources, and causing harm to citizens.

The ISPR said Hameed was allowed to choose his own defence team and has the right to appeal the verdict in the appropriate forum, which would ultimately be the Supreme Court of Pakistan.

The trial was held behind closed doors, and detailed information about the case has not been made public.

The statement also said allegations related to Hameed’s role in creating political unrest are being handled separately.

These are believed to be linked to claims that he was connected to protests following Imran Khan’s arrest on May 9, 2023.

Hameed’s lawyer, Mian Ali Ashfaq, said his client was “completely innocent” but respected the court’s decision.

He said the defence learned about the verdict through the ISPR statement and is seeking an official copy of the judgement. Ashfaq added that an appeal will be filed first with the army chief, followed by further legal steps to seek justice.