Military court sentences receive widespread praise

ISLAMABAD: The sentences handed down by the military court to the 25 individuals involved in the May 9 violent incidents have received widespread praise and are being hailed as a step toward maintaining national integrity and deterring similar incidents in the future.

According to ISPR, the Military Courts convicted 25 suspects of May 9 violence after examining all the evidence and completing the appropriate legal process.

The suspects have been awarded up to 10 years’ imprisonment.

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif

Describing the May 9 events as a major tragedy, Defence Minister Khawaja Asif asserted that such sentences should have been announced earlier to prevent future acts of a similar nature.
“Breaking the statues of martyrs is an act of enmity against the country. Challenging national defense is treason. Loyalty to Pakistan should be unconditional,” the minister said.

The minister assured that the masterminds behind these incidents would also face justice soon.

Analyst Brigadier (R) Rashid Wali

Brigadier Rashid Wali expressed satisfaction, though he noted that the sentences were delayed. He criticized political groups for inciting unrest for their own interests and referred to the convicted as tools used for such purposes.

He added, “This progress is a positive step and will serve as a lesson to others.”

Major General (R) Zahid Mahmood

Major General Zahid Mahmood termed the May 9 events as an attack on the Pakistani state, stating that such incidents shake the very foundation of the country.

He urged political leaders to protect their workers from engaging in similar activities. Mahmood highlighted that all judicial processes were followed in the military courts sentences, ensuring fairness, and advised against politicizing the sentences to avoid further harm to the country.

Brigadier (R) Waqar Hassan

Brigadier Waqar Hassan appreciated the convictions, although he regretted the delay in the process. He called the action against military installations a planned attack and emphasized the necessity of accountability for all involved.

Brigadier (R) Babar’s Remarks

Brigadier Babar stated that the first batch of sentences had been issued, and others would follow. He reaffirmed that all convicts retained the right to appeal in high and supreme courts. Babar assured that every step of the legal process adhered to the Constitution and law, and no leniency would be shown to anyone acting against the state.

Military courts sentence 25 perpetrators in May 9 cases