By - News Beat
In a major development, former Director General of Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed has been formally indicted for indulging in political activities during his service. The announcement was made by Pakistan Army's media wing, Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), as an unusual move against a senior retired officer.
According to the ISPR, the charges stem from allegations that Lt Gen Faiz Hameed violated the Army Code of Conduct by actively participating in political maneuvers, which is a violation of the long-standing principle of neutrality of the armed forces. The statement emphasized the Army's commitment to maintaining discipline and ensuring that its officers, whether serving or retired, abide by the rules governing their conduct.
Context of the allegations
Lt. Gen. Faiz Hameed, who served as the ISI chief from 2019 to 2021, has been a controversial figure in Pakistan's political and military landscape. His tenure was marked by accusations of meddling in civic political affairs, with critics alleging that he played a key role in influencing political outcomes. After his retirement in early 2023, speculation about his involvement in political activities continued, drawing widespread criticism from various quarters.
The ISPR's decision to indict him comes at a time when the military leadership has reiterated its stance of remaining apolitical. The move is seen as an attempt to restore the institution's credibility and address growing concerns about the military's perceived interference in the country's politics.
Reactions and implications
The indictment has sparked widespread debate in political and public circles. Analysts believe this is an important step towards strengthening the rule of law and preventing future abuses within the armed forces. Political parties and civil society groups have welcomed the decision as a positive step towards depoliticizing state institutions.
However, Lt Gen Faiz Hameed's supporters say the allegations are politically motivated and an attempt to make him a scapegoat for wider institutional problems. Some opposition leaders have also demanded a transparent and impartial investigation into the matter to ensure justice.
What's next?
The ISPR did not disclose specific details of the action but stressed that the matter will be handled as per the Army's legal framework. Legal experts believe the case could set a precedent for dealing with similar allegations in the future.
The development underscores the changing dynamics in Pakistan's power structure as the military seeks to distance itself from political conflict. Whether this move will help restore public confidence in the institution remains to be seen, but it is undoubtedly a watershed moment in Pakistan's civil-military relations.
The result
The indictment of Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed highlights the importance of accountability and discipline within Pakistan's armed forces. As the case unfolds, it will have far-reaching implications for the role of the military in politics and the broader governance of the country.
Published in News Beat on December 10th, 2024