In a historic accountability process, the Pakistan Army has dismissed several top-tier officers for failing to respond appropriately to attacks on military installations during the May 9 violence.
The development was confirmed by Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) Director General (DG) Maj-Gen Ahmed Sharif in a press conference.
According to the details, Maj-Gen Sharif revealed that disciplinary proceedings were initiated against those who failed to keep the security and honour of garrisons, military installations, Jinnah House and General Headquarters intact.
Read more: DG ISPR provides “facts” on May 9 violence in hard-hitting press conference
The army had completed its process of “self-accountability”, saying that two comprehensive inquiries — led by major generals — were conducted, after which several several officers were dismissed.
“Three officers, including a lieutenant-general, have been removed from their jobs. Strict disciplinary proceedings against officers, including three major generals and seven brigadiers, have been completed,” he added.
The DG ISPR said that these penalties showed that accountability in the Pakistan Army was carried out with discrimination, irrespective of rank or social status.
9th May Incidents: One Lt General dismissed, 3 Major General 7 Brigadiers under trial, 102 people facing Military Courts, including granddaughter of 4 star General, son in law of 4 star Gen, wife of 3 star Gen & son in Law & wife of 2 star Gen. DG ISPR Presser pic.twitter.com/YZF629or7n
— Asma Shirazi (@asmashirazi) June 26, 2023
Talking about trials under the Army Act, Maj-Gen Sharif said standing military courts were functioning in which “trial of 102 miscreants is underway and this process will continue”.
“The military courts did not come into existence after May 9, they were already present and functioning. The civil courts have transferred these cases to the military courts after checking evidence and as per the law,” he said.
Maj Gen Chaudhry also said that the suspects have full legal rights and the right to appeal. “They also have the right to appeal in the Supreme Court. The Army Act has been the part of the law and Constitution for decades,” he added.
At the onset of the press conference, the DG ISPR said that the May 9 incident was “undoubtedly a conspiracy against Pakistan” as the investigation held until now has proven that [the events] of May 9 were being planned for the past several months.
Read more: May 9 a dark day of national history: ISPR