Pakistan Army Hints at Military Trial for Imran Khan

The Pakistani military has hinted at the possibility of putting former Prime Minister Imran Khan on trial under military law. They have warned against taking legal action against those who use military personnel for personal or political gains.

On Thursday, Lieutenant General Ahmed Sharif Chaudhury, a spokesperson for the Pakistani Army, addressed the media during a briefing at the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) office at the army headquarters. Ahmed Sharif Chaudhury stated that under military law, if someone uses individuals related to this law for personal or political gains, or if such activities are proven, legal action can be taken against them under this law.

When asked about the possibility of Imran Khan facing a military trial, Ahmed Sharif Chaudhury attempted to avoid the question. He mentioned that such matters are up to the courts and referred to the question as speculative.

However, the military spokesperson did outline the circumstances under which a civilian might be tried under military law.

Rumors about Imran Khan potentially facing a military trial have been circulating for some time. These rumors gained strength after Khan sought intervention from the Islamabad High Court to prevent a possible court-martial.

Imran Khan made this request following violent incidents on May 9 of last year, fearing a military trial. An FIR has already been filed against him in connection with these events.

Last month, former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Chief Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed was arrested. Hameed is considered a close ally of Imran Khan and was appointed as the ISI chief by Khan.

Imran Khan's concerns have heightened following Hameed's arrest, with rumors suggesting that Hameed might become a key witness against him.

Aqeel Malik, spokesperson for Pakistan's central government on legal matters, has also mentioned that Khan could be tried under the Pakistan Army Act of 1952.

The arrest of Imran Khan, founder of the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI), led to widespread violence across Pakistan on May 9 last year. On that day, there were attacks, vandalism, and arson at several government buildings and military installations.