ISLAMABAD: The United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union have raised significant concerns over the recent sentencing of 25 civilians by Pakistani military courts, citing issues of transparency, judicial independence, and adherence to international obligations.
Key developments include:
US Criticism
- State Department Statement:
- US State Department Spokesperson Matthew Miller expressed “deep concern” regarding the convictions.
- Miller emphasized the importance of respecting due process and fair trial rights as enshrined in Pakistan’s constitution.
Military Court Sentences
- The military tribunal sentenced 25 individuals last week for their involvement in the May 9, 2023, violent protests, which erupted after Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) leader Imran Khan was arrested in a graft case.
- Protests led to attacks on military installations, including the General Headquarters (GHQ), and over 100 civilians are reportedly facing military trials.
UK and EU Reactions
- United Kingdom:
- The UK urged Pakistan to uphold its obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
- A Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office spokesperson stated:
- “Military courts lack transparency, independent scrutiny and undermine the right to a fair trial.”
- Despite the criticism, the UK respected Pakistan’s sovereignty over its legal proceedings.
- European Union:
- The EU’s European External Action Service expressed concerns over the sentences, citing inconsistency with Pakistan’s ICCPR obligations.
- Article 14 of ICCPR guarantees fair, public trials by independent and competent courts, with adequate legal representation.
- The EU highlighted that Pakistan’s GSP+ trade benefits depend on adherence to 27 international core conventions, including ICCPR.
Pakistan’s Response
- Foreign Office Stance:
- Foreign Office Spokesperson Mumtaz Zahra Baloch stated that Pakistan’s constitution and courts could address internal matters.
- The government is reviewing the EU’s statement.
- PTI Reaction:
- PTI Information Secretary Sheikh Waqas Akram deemed the EU’s concerns valid.
- Akram warned that the situation could diplomatically isolate Pakistan and jeopardize its preferential trade access under GSP+.
The international criticism reflects broader concerns over judicial practices and Pakistan’s adherence to international legal frameworks, with potential implications for the country’s diplomatic and economic relationships.
