US, UK and EU condemn Pakistan military courts over sentencing of civilians
The United States (US), the United Kingdom (UK) and the European Union (EU) have strongly criticized Pakistan's military courts following the sentencing of 25 civilians on December 24, 2024.
The military court handed down sentences ranging from two to ten years, raising fears among Khan’s supporters about the growing role of military tribunals in cases connected to the former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The US State Department expressed its "deep concern" over the military tribunal's involvement, emphasizing the lack of due process for civilians. Similarly, the British Foreign Office stated that "trying civilians in military courts undermines transparency, independent oversight, and the right to a fair trial."
The European Union also criticized the sentences, labeling them inconsistent with Pakistan's obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR).
The protests in question erupted after Khan’s controversial arrest by paramilitary forces, during which demonstrators targeted military installations. The military court’s verdict, delivered on Saturday, coincided with Khan’s indictment by an anti-terrorism court earlier in the week.
Imran Khan, who was removed from office in 2022, has faced numerous legal challenges since then. His arrest in May 2023 briefly saw him released, only to be re-arrested in August. Since then, he has remained in custody, continuing to face legal battles while leading a protest movement against the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
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