Tue Dec 24 02:38:35 UTC 2024: ## US, UK, and EU Condemn Pakistan’s Military Court Sentencing of Imran Khan Supporters
**Washington, D.C. – December 24, 2024** – The United States, United Kingdom, and European Union have issued a joint condemnation of Pakistan’s military courts following the sentencing of 25 civilians to prison terms ranging from two to ten years. The civilians were convicted in connection with attacks on military installations that occurred in May 2023, following the arrest of former Prime Minister Imran Khan.
The three nations expressed deep concern over the lack of transparency and independent scrutiny within the military court proceedings, arguing that the trials violate Pakistan’s obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. They highlighted concerns that the use of military courts undermines the right to a fair trial.
The May 9th attacks were carried out by supporters of Imran Khan protesting his arrest. Khan himself remains imprisoned, facing numerous charges which he claims are politically motivated, stemming from his fallout with the Pakistani military following his removal as Prime Minister in 2022. Despite his party securing the most seats in the subsequent 2024 elections, a coalition government was formed by his rivals. A UN human rights working group has previously stated that Khan’s detention violates international law.
While the Pakistani government denies any unfair treatment of Khan or his supporters, and the Pakistani embassy in Washington declined to comment, the international criticism underscores growing apprehension regarding the expanding role of military courts in Pakistan’s justice system, particularly in cases related to the former Prime Minister and his supporters.
First Piper 