Journalists Face Life Sentences in Pakistan Over Protest Support

In a recent development, eight journalists and online commentators received life sentences from a Pakistani anti-terrorism court. They were found guilty of terrorism-related offenses. These charges were linked to their online support of Imran Khan, the former prime minister who was briefly arrested. The convictions come from cases filed after violent protests on May 9, 2023. Khan's supporters attacked military sites during these protests. Since then, the government and military have been cracking down on Khan's party and other dissenting voices. They have used anti-terrorism laws and military trials to prosecute hundreds accused of inciting violence and attacking state institutions. The court stated that the accused actions "fell within the ambit of terrorism" under Pakistani law. It also mentioned that their online material promoted "fear and unrest" in society. Most of those convicted are believed to be outside Pakistan and did not attend the court proceedings.Among those convicted are former army officers-turned-YouTubers Adil Raja and Syed Akbar Hussain. Also included are journalists Wajahat Saeed Khan, Sabir Shakir, and Shaheen Sehbai. Commentator Haider Raza Mehdi and analyst Moeed Pirzada were also convicted. Reuters could not reach the journalists or their lawyers for comment. The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has criticized these investigations. They believe the investigations are retaliation against critical reporting. CPJ's Asia program coordinator, Beh Lih Yi, urged authorities to drop these investigations. They also called for an end to the relentless intimidation and censorship of the media. The court handed down life sentences along with additional prison terms and fines. The convicted individuals face further jail time if the fines are not paid. All sentences are subject to confirmation by the Islamabad High Court.