Islamabad, Pakistan — Former Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) chief Lt Gen (retd) Faiz Hameed has taken the next legal step in his high-profile case by filing an appeal against the 14-year prison sentence handed down by a military court. The development comes weeks after Hameed was convicted by a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) on multiple charges, including engaging in political activities, misuse of authority, violating secrecy laws, and causing harm to others.
The appeal was confirmed by Hameed’s lawyer, Mian Ali Ashfaq, who stated that the legal process is underway, though he did not disclose the specific grounds or expected timeline for the appellate proceedings. – Under Section 133B of the Pakistan Army Act, individuals sentenced by a court-martial to more than three months’ imprisonment have the right to appeal to a higher military appellate forum. This forum, typically presided over by senior officers appointed by the army chief, has the authority to uphold, revise, or overturn the original verdict.
Hameed’s conviction, announced on December 11, 2025, followed a 15-month-long trial that drew intense scrutiny due to his stature as one of the country’s former top intelligence officials. The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) had earlier confirmed that the proceedings were conducted with full legal rights afforded to the defendant, including the provision of legal counsel of his choice. Certain aspects of the allegations, particularly those involving political interference, were reportedly being dealt with separately.
Legal experts and political analysts note that the appeal could extend the legal battle for several years, keeping the case in the public eye and highlighting broader issues of accountability within Pakistan’s military and intelligence establishment. The case has already generated widespread attention across media and political circles, marking a rare instance of a senior military officer facing such serious charges and conviction.
The outcome of the appeals process is expected to have significant implications for the military justice system and may shape public discourse around civil-military relations and the limits of accountability for top security officials. Observers are closely monitoring the developments, as the next chapter in Hameed’s legal journey unfolds before the higher military appellate authorities.
This story has been reported by PakTribune. All rights reserved.