United States Condemns Military Trials of Civilians in Pakistan
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Islamabad, Dec 24 (NationPress) The United States has contributed to the rising international condemnation regarding the military trials of civilians in Pakistan after military courts sentenced 25 individuals to prison terms of up to 10 years linked to the riots of May 9, 2023.
This condemnation follows similar concerns expressed by the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom regarding the trial and sentencing of civilians by military courts.
Significant issues have been raised about the transparency, judicial independence, and the right to a fair trial for civilians in Pakistan's military courts, as stated by the US State Department.
"These military courts are devoid of judicial independence, transparency, and necessary due process safeguards. The US continues to urge Pakistani authorities to honor the right to a fair trial and due process as guaranteed by Pakistan's Constitution," the statement indicated.
The UK and the EU have urged Pakistan to adhere to its commitments under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
"While the UK respects Pakistan's sovereignty regarding its legal processes, the trial of civilians in military courts lacks transparency and independent oversight, thus undermining the right to a fair trial," remarked a spokesperson from the UK's Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office.
Additionally, the EU reminded Pakistan of its obligations under Article 14 of the ICCPR, urging the nation to ensure that any judgments in criminal cases are made public.
The EU further cautioned Islamabad regarding its commitments under the Generalised Scheme of Preference Plus (GSP+) status, indicating that the conviction of civilians via military trials could adversely affect Pakistan's GSP+ standing with the EU.
"These verdicts are viewed as inconsistent with the obligations Pakistan has undertaken under the ICCPR. According to Article 14 of the ICCPR, every individual is entitled to a fair and public trial in a court that is independent, impartial, and competent, along with the right to sufficient legal representation. It also mandates that any judgment rendered in a criminal case must be made public," the EU's statement read.
Violent protests erupted on May 9, 2023, following the arrest of former Prime Minister and PTI founder Imran Khan at the Islamabad High Court (IHC). During these protests, PTI supporters breached military installations nationwide, including the Army's General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.
Numerous PTI activists were detained during the riots, with many being tried in military courts and receiving prison sentences ranging from two to ten years for their actions last week.
However, the PTI criticized the failure to uphold the right to a fair trial and competent legal representation for its members. The PTI has vehemently opposed the military trials of civilians and announced plans to contest the convictions in civilian courts.
"Military courts are not authorized to try civilians. There is a ruling from the Supreme Court stating that military courts cannot function like regular courts. Their decisions in these matters are not valid," asserted PTI senior leader Omar Ayub Khan.
