At a Glance
- Seven people, including three journalists, were sentenced to life imprisonment.
- Verdict delivered in absentia after trials without the accused present.
- The case stemmed from May 2023 riots following former Prime Minister Imran Khan’s arrest.
- Why it matters: The ruling highlights tensions over free speech and the treatment of dissent in Pakistan.
A court in Islamabad sentenced seven individuals, among them three journalists, to life imprisonment for inciting violence during the May 2023 riots. The judge, Tahir Abbas Sipra, announced the verdict after trials held in absentia.
Verdict and Sentencing
The anti-terrorism court found Shaheen Sehbai, Sabir Shakir, Moeed Pirzada, Wajahat Saeed Khan, Haider Raza Mehdi, Adil Raja, and Akbar Hussain guilty of inciting violence and spreading hatred against state institutions. The seven men received life sentences and were ordered to appeal within seven days. Police were directed to arrest them if they return to Pakistan.
- Shaheen Sehbai – former editor
- Sabir Shakir – former ARY TV host
- Moeed Pirzada – journalist
- Wajahat Saeed Khan – YouTuber
- Haider Raza Mehdi – YouTuber
- Adil Raja – retired army officer
- Akbar Hussain – retired army officer
Reactions and Context
The riots erupted after the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan in a graft case, leading to attacks on military installations and government property. Khan has denied allegations of inciting violence, while the U.S. government, Pakistani military, and Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif have denied the charges.
Sabir Shakir stated:
> The ruling against me and others is nothing but a political victimization.
Sabir Shakir added:
> I was in Saudi Arabia for a pilgrimage and later in Britain seeking asylum, believing I would face fabricated cases if I returned.
Human rights defenders and journalists’ unions say the verdict signals a shrinking space for free speech in Pakistan.
Key Takeaways
- Seven individuals, including three journalists, were sentenced to life for inciting May 2023 riots.
- Verdict delivered in absentia; accused live abroad.
- The case reflects ongoing tensions over dissent and free speech in Pakistan.
The sentencing underscores the judiciary’s stance on dissent and the broader debate over freedom of expression in the country.
