IN a sign of the times, the once all-powerful spymaster is facing court-martial proceedings. Retired Lt-Gen Faiz Hameed is being charged for misuse of authority and violating the Army Act. It is for the first time in the country’s history that a former ISI chief has been arrested and will stand trial for a serious crime. The timing of this action against him is curious. But more important is the message being conveyed.
A highly controversial former intelligence chief, Lt-Gen Hameed had been under the spotlight for quite some time even when he was in service. But perhaps no one expected him to be arrested and face court martial. While he is being investigated in connection with a housing scheme scandal, allegations pertaining to unspecified activities post-retirement appear more serious.
There is also speculation that he might be implicated in the May 9 incident. To many, his close association with the incarcerated former prime minister Imran Khan is seen as a reason behind his arrest. It may also seem to some as a politically motivated case instead of what is being described as one driven by the military’s ‘tough internal accountability process’.
Interestingly, the development came amidst a worsening stand-off between the military-backed ruling coalition and the PTI-led opposition. Speculations of a former intelligence chief being involved in violent protests that targeted military installations will not only heighten political tensions but also have implications for the security establishment. The arrest raises questions about the........