Ex-spy chief court martial: A turning point in Pakistan’s civil-military dynamics?

Former ISI Director-General Lt. (Retd) Faiz Hameed, long embroiled in controversies, has been formally charged in a field general court-martial, marking a significant step towards accountability within Pakistan’s military.

The Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced that Hameed faces charges tied to violations of the Pakistan Army Act and allegations of collusion with political elements during violent incidents on May 9, 2023.

The former spy chief could face the loss of his rank, military honors, retirement perks—including his pension and residential plots—and potentially a prison sentence.

This marks a dramatic fall for a man once seen as a kingmaker during his tenure as the head of the country’s premier intelligence agency. Hameed was considered instrumental in shaping the Pakistan Tehreek-e-Insaf (PTI) government, led by former prime minister Imran Khan.

His tenure was marked by influence and controversy. He reportedly played a pivotal role in managing parliamentary numbers for the PTI and is said to have influenced key judicial appointments. His closeness to Khan often raised eyebrows, with many viewing him as the power behind the throne.

The court-martial has reignited questions about whether Hameed acted alone or with tacit approval from then-P٘rime Minister Khan and former Army Chief Gen. Qamar Javed Bajwa.

Defense Minister Khawaja Asif has hinted that others, including Bajwa, may also bear responsibility.

This development comes as Pakistan grapples with demands for greater transparency in civil-military relations. This could set a precedent for broader accountability, but skeptics remain cautious.

For now, the spotlight remains on Hameed, whose journey from power to prosecution underscores shifting dynamics in Pakistan’s military and political spheres.