Pakistan recently sentenced a group of journalists, social media commentators, and former military officers to life imprisonment in absentia for alleged terrorism-related online activities. The charges included expressing support for jailed former Prime Minister Imran Khan and nationwide protests from his supporters in 2023. Among those convicted are well-known figures like Moeed Pirzada, Adil Raja, and retired Col. Akbar Hussain, who received 80-year double life sentences.
The court’s ruling, based on anti-terror laws, accused the defendants of promoting fear and unrest and waging war against the state. Despite most not appearing before the court or being served summonses, they were given only seven days to appeal the decision. Journalist Wajahat Saeed Khan, one of the sentenced individuals, highlighted the lack of due process, stating he was never informed about legal representation and was unable to appeal effectively.
Khan criticized the trial as a predetermined “mockery of justice,” alleging that the judge acted as “judge, jury, and executioner all at once.” The defendants were left without proper legal representation or the opportunity to appeal, raising concerns about the fairness and transparency of the judicial process in Pakistan.
