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In an unprecedented move, Pakistan sentences ex-ISI chief to 14 years in jail

By The South Asia Times

ISLAMABAD - In a first for Pakistan’s 78-year history, a former head of the country’s premier intelligence agency, the Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI), has been sentenced to 14 years of rigorous imprisonment following a military trial, the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) announced on Thursday.

According to the military’s media wing, a Field General Court Martial (FGCM) officially promulgated its verdict on 11 December 2025, convicting former Lieutenant General Faiz Hameed on all four charges brought against him. Proceedings began on 12 August 2024 and spanned 15 months under the Pakistan Army Act.

Hameed was found guilty of engaging in political activities, violating the Official Secrets Act in ways deemed harmful to national security, misusing official authority and government resources, and causing wrongful losses to individuals.

ISPR said the extensive legal process was conducted in full compliance with the law and that Hameed was granted all due rights, including access to a defence team of his choice. The former three-star general retains the right to appeal the decision before the relevant forum.

The statement added that Hameed’s alleged involvement in “fomenting vested political agitation and instability in cahoots with political elements,” along with other related matters, is being examined separately.

The sentencing marks a watershed moment in Pakistan’s civil-military landscape, underscoring what officials describe as an unprecedented level of accountability within the armed forces — and setting a historic precedent with the conviction of a former ISI chief.