25 Individuals Involved in May 9 Attacks on Military Installations Sentenced to Prison

Islamabad:A military court has sentenced 25 individuals to prison for their involvement in the violent attacks on military installations during the May 9 incidents. These attacks, which targeted armed forces facilities, including martyrs’ memorials, were based on a pre-existing political narrative rooted in hatred and falsehood, as per the statement issued by the Pakistan Army’s media wing, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR).

According to ISPR, the Field General Court Martial (FGCM) delivered its verdicts after thoroughly reviewing all the evidence and completing the necessary legal procedures. The convicted individuals were granted all the legal rights to ensure due process, including access to defense counsel. These sentences were handed down following the completion of the judicial review and procedural requirements.

**Future of Convicted Individuals Dependent on Supreme Court’s Decision**

Legal expert, Advocate Imran Shafiq, spoke with *V News* and shed light on the future of the 25 individuals sentenced for their involvement in the May 9 attacks. Shafiq explained that the legality of these sentences hinges on the Supreme Court’s decision. When the Supreme Court granted permission for military courts to issue verdicts, it also attached a condition: that the decision regarding civilian trials in military courts would be subject to the outcome of pending petitions in the court. If the Supreme Court concludes that civilians cannot be tried in military courts, these sentences could be rendered void and have no legal standing. However, if the court permits such trials, the situation could be different.

Shafiq added that even in that case, there would still be questions regarding the nature of cases and the specific circumstances under which civilians should be tried in military courts. He pointed out that with anti-terrorism courts already in place, it may not be necessary for civilians to face military tribunals for such offenses.

He also emphasized that a decision by the Supreme Court’s five-member bench to prevent civilians from being tried in military courts would be constitutionally and legally sound. In this case, although the military courts have already handed down sentences, the convicted individuals retain the right to appeal, though this process occurs within the military judicial system, which may not provide the same level of scrutiny as civilian courts, such as the High Court or Sessions Court.

**Appeal Process in Military Courts**

Colonel (R) Inam Ur Rehman, in an interview with *V News*, clarified that the 25 individuals sentenced had undergone a court martial. He explained that offenses punishable by up to one year of imprisonment are typically handled through summary trials. However, the majority of those sentenced in this case received longer sentences, including up to 10 years in prison, which is only possible after a court martial process.

Colonel Inam further elaborated that once the FGCM issues a verdict, it is sent to the Convening Authority (Major General), who reviews the decision and confirms the sentence before it is announced. After the sentencing, the convicted individuals have the option to file an appeal with the Military Court of Appeals within 40 days. If the appeal is rejected, they may then submit a mercy petition to the Army Chief.

He also mentioned that the Supreme Court had previously authorized military courts to hear the cases of 85 individuals. With the sentencing of 25 individuals, it is understood that trials for 60 more cases are still ongoing.

**Debate Over Civilian Trials in Civil Courts**

Colonel (R) Inam Ur Rehman, as a legal professional, expressed his belief that civilians should be tried in civilian courts. He lamented that this practice began during former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s tenure, which saw 29 individuals undergo military trials, three of whom were sentenced to death without being provided a defense counsel of their choice, violating their right to a fair trial.

Rehman noted that during that time, senior lawyer Latif Afridi had advised against this course of action, but the former government proceeded with it, which now appears to be coming back as a case of “karma.”

Following the sentencing, Rehman mentioned that one positive aspect for the convicted individuals is that they will likely be transferred to civilian jails, where they will be able to meet with their families.

The outcomes of these trials will have significant implications on the broader question of civilian trials in military courts, with the Supreme Court’s forthcoming rulings expected to provide much-needed clarity on this issue.