Responding to the incarcerated Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) founder’s demand for an “open trial” of former spymaster Faiz Hamid, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif stated on Wednesday that Imran Khan’s trial could be open if it takes place in a military court related to the May 9 riots.
Asif’s remarks came shortly after the former prime minister called for an open trial of ex-Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lieutenant General (retd) Faiz Hamid, who was recently taken into military custody for alleged abuse of power and violation of the Army Act.
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Speaking on Geo News’ program “Aaj Shahzeb Khanzada Kay Saath,” Asif pointed out that there is no historical precedent in Pakistan for a general’s military trial to be conducted publicly. However, he assured that if the PTI founder is tried in a military court, the trial would be open to the public and media, given that Khan is a civilian.
Asif further explained that it is customary for the military not to conduct open trials for its officers. He accused the former ruling party of colluding with the detained ex-spy chief and claimed that the violent May 9 protests, which were triggered by Khan’s arrest and involved attacks on state properties, including military installations, were premeditated.
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The defence minister alleged that Khan provided the manpower for the riots, while the former ISI chief masterminded the conspiracy. When questioned about Khan’s denial of any connection with Faiz Hamid, Asif asserted that not only Khan but also PTI’s second-tier leadership had admitted to being in contact with the retired general even after the May 9 events.
Earlier in the day, during an informal conversation with journalists at Rawalpindi’s Adiala Jail, the former prime minister, who was ousted via a parliamentary vote in 2022, expressed that an open trial of the ex-ISI chief would benefit the country and aid its prosperity.
In response to Khan’s comments, Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar criticized the ex-prime minister for interfering in the army’s internal matters. He accused Khan of attempting to make the army’s internal accountability process “controversial” through his statements.
Following the ex-spymaster’s arrest, Khan distanced himself from Hamid, who served as DG ISI during his tenure, claiming no connection with him. Khan emphasized that if the military wants to hold General Faiz accountable, it should proceed, as it is the army’s internal matter.
The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced the former ISI chief’s arrest on August 12, citing allegations of land grabbing and other misconduct. The military has initiated court-martial proceedings against Hamid, and three other retired officers have also been taken into custody in connection with the same case.