ISLAMABAD, Dec 24 (Alliance News): The United States has expressed serious concerns over the conviction of 25 civilians by a military court in Pakistan, emphasizing the lack of judicial independence, transparency, and due process.
US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller called on Pakistan to uphold constitutional guarantees for fair trials.
The military court handed down the sentences last week to individuals involved in violent protests on May 9, 2023, triggered by the arrest of PTI founder Imran Khan. These protests led to attacks on state and military installations, prompting the arrest of dozens of civilians, many of whom face military trials.
The European Union and the United Kingdom also voiced their reservations. The EU cited Pakistan’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR), stressing the right to a fair, public trial in an independent court.
The UK echoed similar sentiments, urging Pakistan to meet its ICCPR obligations while respecting the country’s sovereignty.
PTI has denied responsibility for the violence and called for an independent judicial probe. PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram highlighted concerns over diplomatic isolation and potential risks to Pakistan’s preferential trade status under the EU’s GSP+ scheme.
Pakistan’s Foreign Office spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stated the government is reviewing the EU’s criticism but maintains that domestic matters can be addressed within the country’s constitutional and judicial framework.
