Islamabad – The sentencing of former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief retired Lt Gen Faiz Hameed by a military court has triggered wide-ranging debate across Pakistan, raising critical questions about accountability, civil-military relations and the evolving power dynamics within the state.
The unprecedented conviction of a former spymaster — one of the most influential positions in the country’s security architecture — is being viewed as a watershed moment. Observers say the development is significant not only because of the individual involved, but also because it challenges the long-held perception that senior figures within powerful institutions remain beyond scrutiny.
According to available details, the court-martial proceedings spanned more than a year and stemmed from allegations of misuse of authority, violation of official secrecy laws and involvement in activities deemed incompatible with military service. The case reportedly originated from an inquiry into a dispute involving a private housing project near Islamabad, which later expanded into broader charges against the retired general.
Supporters of the verdict argue that the sentence demonstrates the armed forces’ internal accountability mechanisms at work, reinforcing the message that rank and past influence do not guarantee immunity. They maintain that the action reflects an effort to uphold discipline and institutional credibility at the highest levels.
However, critics have raised concerns over the opaque nature of the proceedings, noting that the lack of public transparency has left room for speculation and skepticism. Analysts suggest that while the conviction may appear to set a precedent, true accountability requires consistent and across-the-board application rather than isolated cases.
The verdict has also revived discussions about Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed’s alleged role in Pakistan’s recent political turmoil. His perceived proximity to the former government of Imran Khan and alleged involvement in political engineering have been frequently cited by commentators, particularly in the context of the events surrounding May 9, 2023. While these issues remain contentious, they underscore the complex intersection of intelligence, politics and governance in the country.
As debate intensifies, many believe the case will have lasting implications for Pakistan’s institutional landscape. Whether it marks the beginning of a broader shift toward meaningful accountability or remains a singular, symbolic action is a question that continues to divide opinion.
What is certain, however, is that the verdict has pushed the conversation on power, responsibility and reform firmly into the national spotlight.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.